Install an Ethernet board for GigE cameras

Aim

To install a network board that receives video from one or more GigE cameras.

note If you ordered a computer from Noldus Information Technology when you purchased EthoVision XT and Basler GigE cameras, the Ethernet interface board(s) has already been installed and tested. If you bought your computer somewhere else, you will have to install the board yourself. Follow the instructions below.

important The network interface board must support data transfer of 1 Gb/s.

This topic applies to Ethernet interface boards that have been tested with EthoVision XT.

▪One-port board: the Intel PRO/1000 CT (or its successor), to connect one camera.

▪Four-port board: the Adlink PCIe-GIE74 (A), or the Basler GigE Interface Card (B) to connect up to four cameras.

▪Two-port board: FS X550AT2-2TP. This was combined with an optical switch FS 3100-16TMS to connect 16 GigE cameras. See 16-camera configuration

Procedure

1.Turn off your computer and all connected peripherals, such as the monitor and printer. Make sure that the computer is unplugged.

2.Remove the PC's case according to the instructions provided in the PC's user manual.

3.Select a free PCIe expansion slot, and remove the corresponding extension cover.

Different PCIe slots have different properties, resulting in different performances. When possible, choose the slot that gives maximum performance. To estimate performance, take note of the slot version (2, 3, etc.) and compare it with the following:

▪PCIe v1.x: 250 MB/s

▪PCIe v2.x: 500 MB/s

▪PCIe v3.0: ~1 GB/s

▪PCIe v4.0: ~2 GB/s

▪PCIe v5.0: ~4 GB/s

▪PCIe v6.0: ~8 GB/s

Note that values are given per lane; they should not be multiplied by the number of lanes in a slot (e.g. x4) since the board has a 1x connector). For example, SLOT1-PCIe3x4 written near the slot means version 3.0 with four lanes.

important Do not insert the PCIe board in the blue or white slots.

4.Unpack the Ethernet board, place it into the slot, and press it carefully into position. If the board does not fit into place easily, remove it and repeat the operation.

important When touching the board, its electronic components can be damaged by static electricity. To avoid any such risk, make sure that you are grounded. You can ground yourself by putting on an earthing wristlet, and attaching its clip to the metal frame of the computer. If you do not have an earthing wristlet, hold the metal frame with one hand while holding the Ethernet board in your other hand. Ensure also that your clothing does not touch any components while handling the board.

5.This step is only for when installing a 4-port board.

Connect the power connector on the board (Molex/IDE male 4-pin DC) to one of the power supplies inside the PC. See Power the Ethernet board for the GigE cameras

6.Fix the board to the chassis and re-fit the computer's cover.

7.important If you have not done yet so, turn off Fast startup in the Windows Power options. See Power options when using cameras

8.Next: Install the driver software for the digital cameras.

Main settings of the Ethernet board

You may need to check these settings if the PC / camera are set correctly based on this Help and yet you get camera issues in EthoVision XT:

1.In Windows, open the Device Manager.

2.Under Network adapters, locate your Ethernet board, right-click on it and select Properties.

3.Click the Power Management tab.

4.Make sure that Allow the computer to turn off this device to save power is not selected.

Notes

▪Here is some information from Basler about network interface boards and which ones are supported with the GigE cameras:

https://docs.baslerweb.com/hardware-installation-(gige-cameras)#basler-1gige-cameras