Abstract:

This tutorial by Marisha Llair from STMicroelectronics Imaging Division guides users on how to begin evaluating ST BrightSense image sensors. The video details the necessary hardware components, including the generic EVK mainboard and two options for sensor-specific hardware: S-boards (with adjustable focus and swappable M12 lenses) or turnkey camera modules (with fixed focus). It provides step-by-step instructions on connecting these components, emphasizing the correct cable usage (USB 3.1 for live streaming). The tutorial then walks through downloading the evaluation software (by searching "stw501" on st.com), installing the required CX3 driver and the software itself, and finally, launching the application to start live image streaming. The reusability of the EVK mainboard for different sensors and the availability of additional resources like quick start guides and CAD files are also highlighted.

Getting Started with ST BrightSense Image Sensor Evaluation: A Step-by-Step Guide

• 00:00:07 Introduction: Marisha Llair from STMicroelectronics introduces the tutorial on evaluating ST BrightSense image sensors.
• 00:00:18 Hardware Requirements: Users need two main hardware components:
  • 00:00:26 EVK Mainboard: A generic evaluation mainboard with USB output, orderable from ST.
  • 00:00:38 Sensor-Specific Hardware: Two options are available:
    • 00:00:42 Option 1: S-board: Features a soldered image sensor, M12 lens mount, a removable default lens, and an FFC output. It offers flexibility for focus adjustment and lens replacement.
    • 00:01:04 Connecting S-board: Use the provided flex cable, ensuring correct orientation (blue writing/gray tail on EVK main side, blue tail on S-board side).
    • 00:01:21 Option 2: Camera Module: These are turnkey modules with an ST BrightSense sensor, lens holder, lens, and a plug-and-play flex connector. They have a fixed lens and focus.
    • 00:01:48 Interchangeable Modules: All camera modules share the same pinout and connector for 100% interchangeability.
    • 00:01:56 Connecting Camera Module: Plug directly into the bottom connector of the EVK mainboard.
• 00:02:04 Selecting Your Board: Users can find the ideal S-board or camera module on the ST website's CMOS image sensors evaluation tool section.
• 00:02:12 Physical Setup:
  • 00:02:14 EVK Mainboard Placement: The EVK mainboard includes a mechanical holder for versatile placement (desk, laptop screen, tripod).
  • 00:02:31 PC Connection: Connect the EVK mainboard to a computer using a user-provided USBC cable. A green LED indicates power.
  • 00:02:40 Important Cable Note: A USB 3.1 compliant cable is crucial for the necessary bandwidth for live image streaming; standard smartphone charging cables may not suffice.
• 00:02:54 Software Installation:
  • 00:02:56 Download: Navigate to st.com, search for "stw501", and download the latest software. Login or create an MyST account, or download as a guest.
  • 00:03:33 Unzip and Install Drivers: After unzipping, first run install_CX3_driver.exe (requires administrator rights).
  • 00:03:48 Install Evaluation Software: Proceed to install the main evaluation software.
• 00:03:55 Launching and Streaming:
  • Launch the installed software.
  • 00:04:01 Start Live View: Click the play button in the top left corner of the user interface to begin live image streaming.
• 00:04:13 EVK Mainboard Reusability: The EVK mainboard is a generic solution and can be reused with this tutorial to evaluate any ST BrightSense image sensor.
• 00:04:25 Additional Resources:
  • 00:04:28 Quick Start Guide: An ST BrightSense quick start guide is available online with useful information and FAQs.
  • 00:04:39 CAD Files: For users interested in replicating or drawing inspiration from ST's boards, CAD resources (schematics, Gerber files, 3D STEP files, Bill of Materials) are available on the board web pages.
• 00:04:51 Support: Users are encouraged to ask questions or provide comments.