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.
The PIXY Camera is equipped with advanced hardware and software features to simplify vision-based tasks. Below are its key technical specifications:
Parameter | Value |
---|---|
Image Sensor | 1296 x 976 resolution (CMOS) |
Processor | NXP LPC4330, 204 MHz dual-core |
Lens | Standard M12 lens (wide-angle) |
Frame Rate | 50 frames per second (max) |
Communication Interfaces | UART, SPI, I2C, USB, Analog, PWM |
Input Voltage | 6V to 10V |
Power Consumption | 140 mA @ 7.5V |
Dimensions | 2.0" x 1.4" x 1.4" (50 x 35 x 35 mm) |
Weight | 27 grams |
The PIXY Camera features a 10-pin connector for interfacing with external devices. Below is the pinout:
Pin Number | Name | Description |
---|---|---|
1 | VCC | Power input (6V to 10V) |
2 | GND | Ground |
3 | SDA | I2C data line |
4 | SCL | I2C clock line |
5 | TX | UART transmit |
6 | RX | UART receive |
7 | SPI_SS | SPI slave select |
8 | SPI_MOSI | SPI master out, slave in |
9 | SPI_MISO | SPI master in, slave out |
10 | SPI_SCK | SPI clock |
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:
Wiring: Connect the PIXY Camera to the Arduino UNO using the following connections:
Install the PIXY Arduino Library:
Sketch > Include Library > Add .ZIP Library
, and select the downloaded library.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
}
No Objects Detected:
Incorrect Object Data:
Communication Errors:
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.