2 x binning (f-503 also 4 x), Chapter, Binning (only b/w cameras; f-503: also – ALLIED Vision Technologies Guppy PRO F-503 User Manual
Page 119: Color cameras)
Description of the data path
Guppy PRO Technical Manual V4.0.0
117
Binning (only b/w cameras; F-503: also color
cameras)
2 x binning (F-503 also 4 x)
Definition
Binning is the process of combining neighboring pixels while being read out
from the sensor.
Binning is used primarily for 3 reasons:
•
a reduction in the number of pixels and thus the amount of data while
retaining the original image area angle
•
an increase in the frame rate (CCD models: vertical binning only; CMOS
models: also horizontal binning)
•
a brighter image, also resulting in an improvement in the signal-to-
noise ratio of the image
Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and signal-to-noise separation specify the
quality of a signal with regard to its reproduction of intensities. The value
signifies how high the ratio of noise is in regard to the maximum achievable
signal intensity.
The higher this value, the better the signal quality. The unit of measurement
used is generally known as the decibel (dB), a logarithmic power level. 6 dB
is the signal level at approximately a factor of 2.
However, the advantages of increasing signal quality are accompanied by a
reduction in resolution.
Only Format_7
Binning is possible only in video Format_7. The type of binning used
depends on the video mode.
Types
In general, we distinguish between the following types of binning
(H=horizontal, V=vertical):
•
2 x H-binning
•
2 x V-binning
•
4 x H-binning (only F-503)
•
4 x V-binning (only F-503)
and the full binning modes:
•
2 x full binning (a combination of 2 x H-binning and 2 x V-binning)
•
4 x full binning (a combination of 4 x H-binning and 4 x V-binning)
(only F-503)
Note
•
Binning does not change offset, brightness or black-
level.