How to Use PIXY Camera: Examples, Pinouts, and Specs

The PIXY Camera is a smart vision sensor designed for detecting and tracking objects in real-time. It combines a powerful image sensor with an onboard processor to handle image processing tasks, allowing it to output object data directly to a microcontroller or computer. This makes it an ideal choice for robotics, automation, and other applications requiring object recognition and tracking.

• Object tracking for robotics and drones
• Line-following robots
• Color-based object detection
• Industrial automation and sorting systems
• Educational projects involving computer vision

The PIXY Camera is equipped with advanced hardware and software features to simplify vision-based tasks. Below are its key technical specifications:

The PIXY Camera features a 10-pin connector for interfacing with external devices. Below is the pinout:

The PIXY Camera is designed to be user-friendly and can be integrated into a variety of projects. Below are the steps to use it effectively:

1. Wiring: Connect the PIXY Camera to the Arduino UNO using the following connections:

   • VCC (PIXY) to 5V (Arduino)
   • GND (PIXY) to GND (Arduino)
   • SDA (PIXY) to A4 (Arduino)
   • SCL (PIXY) to A5 (Arduino)

2. Install the PIXY Arduino Library:

   • Download the PIXY library from the official website or GitHub.
   • Open the Arduino IDE, go to Sketch > Include Library > Add .ZIP Library, and select the downloaded library.

3. Upload Example Code: Use the following example code to detect and print object data from the PIXY Camera:

   #include <Pixy2.h> // Include the PIXY library
   
   Pixy2 pixy; // Create a PIXY object
   
   void setup() {
     Serial.begin(9600); // Initialize serial communication
     pixy.init(); // Initialize the PIXY Camera
     Serial.println("PIXY Camera Initialized");
   }
   
   void loop() {
     pixy.ccc.getBlocks(); // Get detected objects (blocks)
     
     // Check if any objects are detected
     if (pixy.ccc.numBlocks) {
       Serial.print("Detected ");
       Serial.print(pixy.ccc.numBlocks);
       Serial.println(" object(s):");
       
       // Loop through all detected objects
       for (int i = 0; i < pixy.ccc.numBlocks; i++) {
         Serial.print("Object ");
         Serial.print(i + 1);
         Serial.print(": X=");
         Serial.print(pixy.ccc.blocks[i].m_x); // X-coordinate
         Serial.print(", Y=");
         Serial.print(pixy.ccc.blocks[i].m_y); // Y-coordinate
         Serial.print(", Width=");
         Serial.print(pixy.ccc.blocks[i].m_width); // Width
         Serial.print(", Height=");
         Serial.println(pixy.ccc.blocks[i].m_height); // Height
       }
     }
     delay(100); // Add a short delay
   }
   

• Lighting Conditions: Ensure adequate and consistent lighting for accurate object detection.
• Object Colors: The PIXY Camera is optimized for color-based object detection. Use distinct, high-contrast colors for best results.
• Lens Adjustment: Adjust the lens focus for sharp images if necessary.
• Firmware Updates: Keep the PIXY Camera firmware updated to access the latest features and improvements.

1. No Objects Detected:

   • Ensure the object is within the camera's field of view.
   • Check that the object has a distinct color and is well-lit.
   • Verify that the PIXY Camera is properly connected and powered.

2. Incorrect Object Data:

   • Recalibrate the camera using the PIXYMon software.
   • Adjust the lens focus for better image clarity.

3. Communication Errors:

   • Double-check the wiring between the PIXY Camera and the microcontroller.
   • Ensure the correct communication protocol (I2C, UART, SPI) is selected in the code.

Q: Can the PIXY Camera detect multiple objects simultaneously?
A: Yes, the PIXY Camera can detect and track multiple objects at once, up to a maximum of seven distinct objects.

Q: What is the maximum detection range of the PIXY Camera?
A: The detection range depends on the size of the object and lighting conditions. Typically, it can detect objects up to several meters away.

Q: Can the PIXY Camera be used with Raspberry Pi?
A: Yes, the PIXY Camera supports multiple communication interfaces, making it compatible with Raspberry Pi and other platforms.

Q: How do I reset the PIXY Camera to factory settings?
A: Use the PIXYMon software to reset the camera to its default settings.

By following this documentation, you can effectively integrate the PIXY Camera into your projects and troubleshoot common issues.