How to Use OV5640 Breakout Board: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The OV5640 Breakout Board by Adafruit is a compact circuit board featuring the OV5640 image sensor. This sensor is capable of capturing high-resolution images and streaming video, making it ideal for a wide range of applications. The breakout board simplifies integration into projects by providing easy access to the sensor's functionality through a user-friendly pinout.

• Embedded Vision Systems: Ideal for robotics, drones, and IoT devices requiring visual input.
• Surveillance and Security: Used in security cameras for high-quality image capture.
• Machine Learning Projects: Suitable for image recognition and object detection tasks.
• DIY Electronics: Perfect for hobbyists building custom cameras or video systems.

The OV5640 Breakout Board is designed to provide high performance in a compact form factor. Below are the key technical details:

• Image Sensor: OV5640 CMOS sensor
• Resolution: Up to 5 megapixels (2592 x 1944)
• Video Output: 1080p at 30 fps, 720p at 60 fps
• Lens: Fixed focus
• Interface: DVP (Digital Video Port) and I2C for configuration
• Operating Voltage: 3.3V (logic level)
• Power Consumption: ~140 mW (active mode)
• Dimensions: 25mm x 24mm (approx.)

The breakout board features a set of pins for easy interfacing. Below is the pinout:

The OV5640 Breakout Board is straightforward to use in a variety of projects. Below are the steps and best practices for integrating it into your circuit.

1. Power the Board: Connect the 3.3V pin to a 3.3V power source and the GND pin to ground.
2. Connect I2C Lines: Use the SCL and SDA pins to communicate with the sensor via I2C. Ensure pull-up resistors (typically 4.7kΩ) are used on these lines.
3. Connect Video Output: Use the D0-D7 pins for parallel data output, along with VSYNC, HREF, and PCLK for synchronization.
4. Provide an External Clock: Connect a 24 MHz clock signal to the XCLK pin to drive the sensor.
5. Optional Control Pins: Use the RESET pin to reset the sensor and the PWDN pin to enable low-power mode if needed.

• Voltage Levels: Ensure all logic signals are at 3.3V levels to avoid damaging the sensor.
• Clock Stability: Use a stable 24 MHz clock source for optimal performance.
• Lens Adjustment: The fixed-focus lens may need to be manually adjusted for specific applications.
• I2C Address: The default I2C address of the OV5640 is 0x78. Ensure no conflicts with other devices on the I2C bus.

The OV5640 can be connected to an Arduino UNO for basic configuration and control. Below is an example code snippet to initialize the sensor via I2C:

#include <Wire.h>

// OV5640 I2C address
#define OV5640_I2C_ADDR 0x78

void setup() {
  Wire.begin(); // Initialize I2C communication
  Serial.begin(9600); // Initialize serial communication for debugging

  // Reset the OV5640
  Wire.beginTransmission(OV5640_I2C_ADDR);
  Wire.write(0x3008); // System control register
  Wire.write(0x82);   // Reset command
  Wire.endTransmission();
  delay(100); // Wait for the sensor to reset

  Serial.println("OV5640 initialized.");
}

void loop() {
  // Add your code to capture images or configure the sensor
}

• The above code demonstrates basic initialization. For full functionality, additional configuration registers must be set based on your application.
• Use a logic level shifter if connecting to a 5V microcontroller like the Arduino UNO.

1. No Image Output:

   • Ensure the XCLK pin is receiving a stable 24 MHz clock signal.
   • Verify that the 3.3V and GND connections are secure.
   • Check the I2C communication lines (SCL and SDA) for proper pull-up resistors.

2. I2C Communication Fails:

   • Confirm the I2C address (0x78) matches the sensor's default address.
   • Check for conflicts with other devices on the I2C bus.
   • Ensure the I2C lines are not too long, as this can cause signal degradation.

3. Blurry or Out-of-Focus Images:

   • Adjust the fixed-focus lens manually to achieve the desired focus.
   • Ensure the sensor is clean and free of dust or smudges.

4. High Power Consumption:

   • Use the PWDN pin to place the sensor in low-power mode when not in use.
   • Minimize active time by capturing images only when necessary.

• Can the OV5640 capture video? Yes, the OV5640 supports video output at resolutions up to 1080p at 30 fps.

• What is the maximum resolution of the OV5640? The sensor supports up to 5 megapixels (2592 x 1944).

• Can I use the OV5640 with a Raspberry Pi? Yes, the OV5640 can be interfaced with a Raspberry Pi using the I2C and DVP interfaces, but additional software configuration may be required.

• Is the OV5640 compatible with 5V logic? No, the OV5640 operates at 3.3V logic levels. Use a level shifter if interfacing with 5V systems.

By following this documentation, you can successfully integrate the OV5640 Breakout Board into your projects and troubleshoot common issues effectively.