The Raspberry Pi High-Quality Camera is an imaging solution that takes your photography and video capabilities to new heights. With an impressive resolution of 12.3 megapixels, this camera surpasses the standard market offerings, elevating the quality of your captures to a whole new level. Experience enhanced low-light performance, thanks to its increased sensitivity and 50% greater area per pixel. Unlike its predecessors, the Camera Module v2, this state-of-the-art camera is compatible with interchangeable lenses in both C- and CS-mount form factors, and you can even utilize third-party lens adapters to accommodate various lens form factors. Unleash your creativity and explore a world of endless photographic possibilities with the Raspberry Pi High-Quality Camera.

 

Package Includes:

• 1 x Raspberry Pi High-Quality Camera main unit
• 1 x C-CS adapter
• 1 x Dust cap
• 1 x FFC ribbon
• 1 x Screwdriver

 

Features:

1. High Resolution: The camera module offers an impressive resolution of 12.3 million pixels, delivering stunningly detailed images at a resolution of 4056 (H) x 3040 (V) pixels. This allows you to capture images with exceptional clarity and sharpness.
2. CMOS Sensor: The camera incorporates a high-quality CMOS sensor with a diagonal length of 7.9mm. CMOS technology enables efficient light capture and processing, contributing to improved image quality and low-light performance.
3. Pixel Size: Each individual pixel on the sensor measures 1.55μm (H) x 1.55μm (V). Larger pixel size allows for better light sensitivity, resulting in reduced noise and enhanced performance in challenging lighting conditions.
4. Output Formats: The camera supports multiple output formats, including RAW12, RAW10, RAW8, and COMP8. These formats offer flexibility and cater to different workflows and post-processing requirements.
5. Back Focus Adjustment: The camera's back focus is adjustable within a range of 12.5mm to 22.4mm. This feature allows users to fine-tune the distance between the sensor and the lens to achieve optimal focus and image quality.
6. Lens Compatibility: The Raspberry Pi High-Quality Camera is designed to work with both C-mount and CS-mount lenses. It includes a C/CS connection ring, making it compatible with a wide range of interchangeable lenses.
7. Integrated IR Filter: The camera module comes with an integrated infrared (IR) filter. This filter blocks unwanted infrared light, ensuring accurate color reproduction and preventing interference from IR sources.
8. Tripod Mount: The camera features a 1/4"-20 tripod mount, allowing you to securely mount it on standard tripods or other camera accessories for stable shooting.
9. Compliance: The camera module meets the standards of FCC 47 CFR Part 15, Subpart B, Class B Digital Device and complies with the Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive (EMC) 2014/30/EU. This ensures that it adheres to the necessary regulations for safe and reliable operation.

 

Description:

Experience the power and precision of the Raspberry Pi High-Quality Camera, unlocking boundless potential for professional photography, videography, scientific research, and industrial applications. Embrace the future of imaging technology with this feature-rich camera, and capture every moment with unparalleled clarity and brilliance. The Raspberry Pi High-Quality Camera is an imaging solution featuring a powerful 12.3MP IMX477 sensor. This advanced camera is designed to deliver unparalleled image quality and performance for a wide range of applications. With a CMOS diagonal length of 7.9mm and pixel size of 1.55μm (H) x 1.55μm (V), it ensures exceptional light sensitivity and reduced noise, even in challenging lighting conditions. The camera supports various output formats, including RAW12, RAW10, RAW8, and COMP8, providing flexibility for diverse post-processing needs. Its adjustable back focus (12.5mm-22.4mm) allows fine-tuning for optimal focus and image precision. Complementing its versatility, the Raspberry Pi High-Quality Camera accommodates both C-mount and CS-mount lenses, thanks to the included C/CS connection ring. Additionally, an integrated IR filter ensures accurate color reproduction while blocking unwanted infrared light interference. With a sturdy 1/4"-20 tripod mount, stability during shooting is assured. Moreover, the camera complies with FCC 47 CFR Part 15, Subpart B, Class B Digital Device, and the Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive (EMC) 2014/30/EU for safe and reliable operation.

 

Principle of Work:

1. Image Sensor (IMX477): At the heart of the camera module is the Sony IMX477R image sensor. This high-quality CMOS sensor has a resolution of 12.3 megapixels and measures 7.9mm diagonally. Each pixel on the sensor is incredibly small, measuring 1.55μm in both the horizontal and vertical directions. The sensor is responsible for capturing incoming light and converting it into electrical signals.
2. Pixel Array and Data Processing: The pixel array on the sensor is organized in a grid, with each pixel capturing the intensity of light falling on it. These individual pixel values are then processed and converted into digital data within the camera module. Depending on the output format chosen (RAW12/10/8, COMP8), the data may undergo compression or be left in a raw, unprocessed format.
3. Lens Mount and Focus Adjustment: The Raspberry Pi High-Quality Camera supports interchangeable lenses with both C-mount and CS-mount standards. The camera module has an adjustable back focus, which allows users to fine-tune the distance between the sensor and the lens. This feature is crucial for achieving optimal focus and sharpness in the captured images or videos.
4. IR Filter: The camera module comes with an integrated infrared (IR) filter. This filter blocks unwanted infrared light from reaching the sensor, ensuring accurate color reproduction and preventing interference from IR sources.
5. Output and Connectivity: The processed image data can be output in various formats, including RAW and compressed formats. The camera module communicates with the Raspberry Pi or other devices through dedicated interfaces like the CSI (Camera Serial Interface) connector on the Raspberry Pi board.
6. Control and Configuration: The camera module can be controlled and configured through software interfaces provided by the Raspberry Pi operating system or other compatible systems. Users can adjust camera settings, such as exposure time, ISO, white balance, and more, to customize the imaging process according to their specific needs.
7. Power Management: The camera module is designed to work efficiently with the power supply provided by the Raspberry Pi or a compatible power source. Power management ensures that the camera operates reliably and conserves energy when not in use.

 

Pinout of the Module:

 

Applications:

• Photography and Videography: The camera module is ideal for capturing high-quality images and videos, making it suitable for hobbyist photographers, filmmakers, and content creators. Its ability to work with different lenses allows users to explore creative compositions and achieve professional-grade results.
• Scientific Research: In scientific fields, the camera can be used for microscopy, astronomy, and other research applications. The high resolution and sensitivity enable precise image capture, making it valuable for data analysis and documentation.
• Industrial and Manufacturing: The camera can be integrated into automated inspection systems, quality control processes, and robotics applications. Its ability to capture fine details and adapt to various lenses makes it useful for capturing and analyzing production processes.
• IoT and Surveillance: The module can be used in Internet of Things (IoT) projects for monitoring and surveillance purposes. Its compact size and versatile lens options make it suitable for remote monitoring and security systems.
• Environmental Monitoring: With its sensitivity to low-light conditions and high resolution, the camera can be employed in environmental monitoring projects to capture images of wildlife, weather phenomena, and natural habitats.
• Agriculture and Plant Sciences: The camera can aid in plant health monitoring, precision agriculture, and crop analysis. It allows researchers and farmers to inspect crops and study plant development in detail.
• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: The high-quality images captured by the camera can be used as training data for machine learning models in computer vision applications, including object recognition and image classification.
• Educational Projects: The camera module is an excellent tool for educational purposes. It allows students to learn about photography, imaging technology, and computer vision through hands-on projects and experimentation.
• Medical Imaging: The camera's high resolution and sensitivity can be valuable in medical imaging applications, such as endoscopy and microscopy, for detailed visualization and diagnostics.
• Security and Home Automation: The camera can be integrated into smart home setups for security monitoring and automation, providing users with real-time visual updates and alerts.

 

Circuit:

To connect it with RPi follow these steps:
On the Raspberry Pi HQ Camera or Camera Module board, you will see a flat plastic connector. It's important to be gentle when working with it. Look for the edges of the connector that are sticking out slightly, and carefully pull them until the connector comes out part-way. Now, take the ribbon cable (the flat, flexible cable) and make sure the silver edges are facing downwards while the blue plastic part faces upwards. Slide this ribbon cable under the flap that you just pulled out. After that, push the flap back into place gently until you hear a clicking sound. Don't worry about which end of the cable you use; either end will work just fine. To check if the cable is installed correctly, ensure that it lies straight and doesn't come out easily when you gently tug on it. If you find that it's not secure or straight, simply pull the flap out again and try inserting the cable once more. With a bit of patience, you'll get it installed properly. 

 

Code:

1. Enable the Camera Interface: a. Boot up your Raspberry Pi and log in to the terminal or desktop environment. b. Open the Raspberry Pi Configuration Tool by typing the following command: sudo raspi-config c. In the configuration tool, navigate to "Interfacing Options." d. Select "Camera" and choose "Enable." Follow the prompts to save the changes and reboot the Raspberry Pi.

2. Install Required Software: a. Ensure your Raspberry Pi is connected to the internet. b. Open the terminal and run the following command to update the package list: sudo apt update c. Next, install the Python library for camera control with the following command: sudo apt install python3-picamera

3. Demo Code: a. Create a new Python file using your preferred text editor. For example, you can use the nano editor: nano camera_demo.py b. Copy and paste the following demo code into the file:

 

from picamera import PiCamera
from time import sleep

# Create a camera object
camera = PiCamera()

# Set camera resolution (optional, can be omitted)
camera.resolution = (1280, 720)

# Start preview
camera.start_preview()

# Add a sleep time to show the preview for a few seconds
sleep(5)

# Capture an image and save it as 'image.jpg' in the current directory
camera.capture('image.jpg')

# Stop preview
camera.stop_preview()

Save and Run the Code: a. Save the file by pressing Ctrl + X, then Y, and Enter to confirm the filename. b. Run the Python script: python3 camera_demo.py c. The preview will start for 5 seconds, and then an image named "image.jpg" will be captured and saved in the same directory.

 

Technical Details:

NSOR	Sony IMX477R
	12.3MP, 4056 (H) × 3040 (V)
	7.9mm CMOS diagonal size
	1.55µm (H) × 1.55µm (V) pixel size
OUTPUT	RAW12 / 10 / 8, COMP8
BACK FOCUS	Adjustable（12.5mm-22.4mm）
LENS SUPPORT	C-mount / CS-mount (C-CS adapter included)
IR CUT FILTER	Integrated
TRIPOD MOUNT	1/4″-20

 

Resources:

• User manual
• Camera Guide
• Raspberry Pi High Quality Camera Getting Started
• HQ Camera Drawing
• C-Mount Lens Guide
• CS-Mount Lens Guide

 

Comparisons:

Comparing the Raspberry Pi High-Quality Camera (12.3MP IMX477 sensor) to the Raspberry Pi NoIR Camera (8MP IMX219 sensor) and the 1.3MP/5MP Camera Module (OV5647 sensor), the Raspberry Pi High-Quality Camera stands out with its highest resolution and superior image quality, making it an excellent choice for professional and high-quality imaging applications. The NoIR Camera is specialized for night vision and low-light scenarios, while the 1.3MP/5MP Camera Module serves basic photography and educational projects with more budget-friendly options. The choice between these cameras depends on your specific project requirements and budget constraints.:

1. Resolution:

   • High-Quality Camera: 12.3 megapixels
   • NoIR Camera: 8 megapixels
   • 1.3MP/5MP Camera Module: 1.3 or 5 megapixels (depending on the version)

   The High-Quality Camera offers the highest resolution, providing more detailed and higher-quality images compared to the NoIR Camera and the 1.3MP/5MP Camera Module.

2. Image Quality and Low-Light Performance:

   • High-Quality Camera: With its larger sensor and advanced CMOS technology (IMX477R), it delivers superior image quality and performs better in low-light conditions.
   • NoIR Camera: It is similar to the 8MP version but lacks an infrared (IR) filter, making it suitable for night vision and low-light applications, but may slightly impact color accuracy.
   • 1.3MP/5MP Camera Module: The OV5647 sensor is older and not as capable as the IMX477R or IMX219 in terms of image quality and low-light performance.

3. Lens Compatibility:

   • High-Quality Camera, NoIR Camera, and 1.3MP/5MP Camera Module: All three camera modules support interchangeable lenses with C-mount and CS-mount standards, providing flexibility in choosing lenses based on specific requirements.

4. Use Cases:

   • High-Quality Camera: Ideal for professional photography, videography, scientific research, and applications requiring high-resolution imaging and exceptional image quality.
   • NoIR Camera: Suited for night vision and low-light applications, such as surveillance, wildlife monitoring, and security systems.
   • 1.3MP/5MP Camera Module: More suitable for basic photography, educational projects, and scenarios where lower resolution is sufficient.

5. Price:

   • The High-Quality Camera is generally the most expensive of the three options due to its advanced features and higher resolution.
   • The NoIR Camera and the 1.3MP/5MP Camera Module are more budget-friendly options.