As a result, PGR has considerably less control over feature implementation and settings. For example, direct control over the interaction between (Auto) Exposure, (Auto) Gain and Shutter is not possible. In this case, unlike other Imaging Products, putting Exposure into manual mode stops the chipset from automatically controlling Gain.

Another example is the inability to read camera settings that have been adjusted in auto mode. This behaviour can be seen using the "General Camera Properties" tab in the "Camera Control" dialog of FlyCap. With Auto Exposure enabled, covering the camera lens will result in the camera automatically adjusting to compensate; this can be seen in the live image display. However, the Exposure values will not automatically update to reflect the new settings. Again, this is a function of the chipset, and is not something that can be designed out.

Following is a general list of functionality that cannot be implemented on the Firefly or Firefly2:

• Auto Gain (direct control)
• Custom Image Modes (Format_7)
• Extended Shutter Modes
• Embedded Image Timestamping
• Upgradeable Firmware
• Trigger Modes and GPIO functionality
• Automatic Inter-Camera Synchronization

For more information on the differences between the Firefly / Firefly2 and our other Imaging Products, please refer to the Related Article below.