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Hardware Setup and First Connection

This deep dive provides a comparison between the OV20i and OV80i cameras, an overview of power requirements, LED layout, and system status indicators, as well as installation considerations and best practices.

Deep Dive Overview​

Learning Objectives​

  • Connect → Power up and verify hardware operation
  • Activate → Get cameras online and active
  • Configure → Set up networking and system settings
  • Create 2 Recipes → Build classification and segmentation models
  • Build Logic → Implement automation with Node-RED

What You'll Leave With​

  • Knowledge of the equipment
  • Technical confidence
  • Troubleshooting skills for on-site deployment
  • Understanding of basic Node-RED flows

Equipment Check​

  • Camera
  • Power adapter and M12 power cable + ethernet cable
  • Sample inspection objects
  • Documentation and quick reference cards

Camera Model Comparison​

OV20i - The Plug-and-Play Solution​

  • Built-in LED lighting with software-controlled zones
  • Software-controlled focus - no manual adjustment needed
  • 1.6 MP
  • Global shutter

OV80i - The Customizable Powerhouse​

  • C-mount lens flexibility - choose optimal optics for application
  • External lighting required - maximum control for specialized lighting
  • 8 MP
  • Roller shutter
  • Higher processing capability - handles complex, multi-inspection scenarios
note

Key physical difference: M12 Connector Pin Count

  • OV20i: 17-pin M12
  • OV80i: 12-pin M12

Powering Up​

Power Requirements​

  • Voltage: 19-24 VDC
  • Power Consumption:
    • Maximum: 18W
    • Typical: 15W
  • Connection: M12 connector with breakout cable

OV20i Power Connection​

  • M12 17-pin connector to camera
  • Breakout cable provides individual wire connections
  • Power terminals: Clearly marked + and - on breakout

OV20i wiring diagram

LED Status Indicators and System Health​

LED Layout:​

  • Power LED (Green): Indicates camera receiving correct power
  • Network LED: Shows Ethernet connectivity status
  • Status LED: System operational indicator

Power LED States​

  • Solid Green: Power supply within specification, camera operational
  • Off: No power or insufficient power supply
  • Dim/Flickering/Red: Power supply issue - check voltage and current capacity

System Status Indicators​

  • Solid: System fully operational and ready
  • Slow Blink: System starting up (normal for first 30-60 seconds)
  • Fast Blink: System error or configuration issue
  • Off: System not fully booted or hardware issue

Using LEDs for Troubleshooting​

  • First Check: Always verify LED status before advanced troubleshooting
  • Model-specific: Know which LEDs are active on each camera type
  • Remote Diagnosis: LEDs visible for technician guidance over phone
  • Documentation: Include LED reference in maintenance procedures

Physical Installation Best Practices​

Mounting Options and Considerations​

  • Front Mounting: Camera face accessible
  • Rear Mounting: More protected, better for harsh environments
  • Vibration Isolation: Use rubber washers or isolation mounts when needed
  • Accessibility: Plan for cleaning and maintenance access

Cable Routing and Management​

  • Bend Radius: Respect minimum bend radius for M12 cables
  • Strain Relief: Use cable glands and strain relief fittings
  • EMI Considerations: Route away from high-power cables when possible
  • Flexibility: Allow for mechanical movement and thermal expansion

Environmental Considerations​

  • IP Rating: Camera body rated for industrial environments
  • Cleaning: Food-grade environments may require special considerations
  • Lighting: Plan for ambient lighting effects on inspection
  • Temperature: Account for camera heat generation in design