Vision Research Launches Phantom C321 Air High-Speed Camera, Expanding Testing Capabilities in Demanding Airborne Applications
March 7, 2024
Vision Research Launches Phantom C321 Air High-Speed Camera, Expanding Testing Capabilities in Demanding Airborne Applications
Vision Research, a leading manufacturer of digital high-speed imaging systems, announces the release of its Phantom Miro® C321 Air high-speed camera for airborne testing applications. This 2-megapixel camera leverages the rugged and field-proven design of the Phantom Miro C321 vehicle crash test camera to meet manned and unmanned airborne testing requirements. Specifically, its high frame rates and many advanced imaging features expand testing opportunities while offering unparalleled data security and meeting strict specifications related to environmental durability, EMI and avionics power.
The C321 Air achieves 1,480 frames per second (fps) at full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution and up to 94,000 fps at reduced resolutions. Because airborne tests often require lower frame rates, it unlocks additional testing opportunities for researchers while providing detailed, higher-quality images. The new camera also features a 10-micron pixel size for high sensitivity, low noise and high dynamic range to capture critical test events with minimal motion blur.
“We’re thrilled to introduce the Phantom C321 Air to the airborne testing community,” says Kevin Gann, Vice President of Research and Development at Vision Research. “Our customers in the defense and aerospace fields need to conduct critical stores separation tests in demanding environments. As the high-speed camera market leader, Vision Research has the reputation, experience and knowledge to provide a differentiated camera that meets the most stringent demands of the airborne environment.”
The C321 Air satisfies aerospace-specific specifications including one of the most difficult tests, the vibe test (MIL-STD 810H, Method 514.8, Category 12 (Jet), up to 26 Grms). The camera is also temperature tested to -55˚C, includes conformal-coated boards to protect against humidity and offers a removable CFast solid-state drive (SSD), secured with a double-action latching door. Users can download shots to the flash in-flight, saving multiple captures from a mission.
Key Specifications of the Phantom C321 Air
- Small, compact form factor
- HD resolution (1920 x 1080)
- Throughput: 3 Gpx/s image capture
- Max frame rate at full resolution: 1,480 fps
- Max frame rate at reduced resolution: 94,000 fps
- Operational temperature range: -55˚ to +50˚C
- Programmable I/O to easily configure signals
- Designed to meet MIL-STD 810H, 704 and 461 standards (complete testing pending)
- 6GB RAM with memory partitioning capabilities
- CFast and auto-save features for securely storing multiple shots
More Information
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High-Speed Cameras for the UV Light Spectrum Are Now Available
Vision Research, a division of AMETEK and the manufacturer of Phantom High-Speed Cameras, has introduced high-speed cameras capable of capturing images in the extended light spectrum of UV, visible and Near-IR wavelengths. The cameras have over 70% Quantum Efficiency (QE) at 300nm, as well as unprecedented QE at other points of the UV light spectrum, allowing researchers to potentially capture images using just the camera and a UV lens. Previously, images in the UV light spectrum were only available with the aid of an image intensifier. The cameras are also capable of capturing images in the visible and near IR spectrums with performance similar to the equivalent Phantom cameras. Depending on lab needs, the cameras can offer a two-in-one benefit.
