USER'S MANUAL

PIXCI® CL2
Revision 1.2

24 January 2007

For use with:
PIXCI® CL2 Rev. 1.0



Copyright © 2007 EPIX, Inc.
No part of this document may be reproduced, transmitted, photocopied, or translated into another language without the written consent of EPIX, Inc. Information in this document is subject to change without obligation or notice. EPIX, Inc. makes no warranty of any kind with regard to this document, including, but not limited to, the implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. EPIX, Inc. assumes no responsibility for any errors that may appear in this document. EPIX, Inc. reserves the right to make changes to the specifications of hardware and software at any time, without obligation or notice.

4MIP, SVIP, XCIP, XCAP, 4MEG VIDEO, 1MEG VIDEO, SILICON VIDEO MUX, QUICK SET VIDEO, 12-7MUX, IMAGE MEMORY EXPANSION, COC40, and COC402 are trademarks of EPIX, Inc.

EPIX, SILICON VIDEO, and PIXCI are registered trademarks of EPIX, Inc.

Other brand, product, and company names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.

Printing: 21-Nov-2007

Table of Contents


 

 

 

1. Installation

Thank you for purchasing imaging products from EPIX, Inc. We are available via the Internet, FAX, and telephone to help with installation or to answer questions about the use of our products for your application.

The PIXCI® CL2 imaging board, for the PCI bus, is packed in a static dissipative bag. Please keep the bag and box in which the board was shipped should the need arise to return the board. Prior to opening the bag, place the bag near the PC into which the board will be installed.

We recommend installing XCAP prior to installing the PIXCI imaging board. Please refer to the Software Installation chapter for the XCAP installation directions, then follow the board installation instructions below.

  1. Turn off the power and remove the cover from the PC into which the PIXCI imaging board is to be installed.

  2. Select a vacant 64 bit, 3.3 volt PCI bus slot and remove the metal bracket and screw covering the back panel slot with which it is aligned. Consult the reference manual for the PC if there is any doubt about which slot is a 64 bit, 3.3 volt PCI bus slot. The board will not install in a 5 volt PCI slot as the slot position on the 5 volt slot will prevent installation into the connector.

  3. Use of a static free area and a wrist strap connected to the PC or to the static free area is suggested during installation. Walking can generate static electricity. Keep your feet stationary while removing the PIXCI imaging board from the anti-static bag. Hold the bag and the PC at the same time, or place the bag on the PC chassis and hold the chassis to dissipate the static charge that may have been created while transporting the board to the PC.

  4. Remove the PIXCI imaging board from the anti-static bag and insert it into the PCI bus connector. This can require up to 15 pounds of force. Do not use too much force as the board may not be inserted into the connector correctly, and the result can be damage to the connector and the board. Consult the reference manual for the PC if there is any doubt about which slot is a PCI bus slot.

  5. Replace the screw to secure the PIXCI imaging board in the slot.

  6. Remove the power from all equipment to be connected.

  7. Connect the cable(s) between the PIXCI, camera, and power supply. The PIXCI end of the cable has a 26 pin MDR 3M connector. Connect the other end of the cable into the camera connector.

  8. Power up the camera, PC, and monitor(s).

  9. Operate XCAP by following the instructions in the Software Installation and Getting Started chapters in this manual.

  10. Check for display of video on the VGA monitor by clicking on the Capture and then the Snap menu in the View window or by using the shortcut menu.

  11. Note that for line scan cameras, either an external vertical drive signal or the ''Internal'' vertical drive selection must be used.

  12. If there is no video displayed, check for the presence of vertical drive by clicking on ''PIXCI,'' and ''PIXCI Status.'' The number reported for the ''Vertical Sync Count'' should be increasing if vertical drive is being received from the camera. If it is not increasing, check the connections and power to the camera. Check to be sure the camera is not in a trigger mode waiting for a trigger. If these suggestions fail, refer to the ''In Case of Trouble'' chapter in this manual.

The size and the number of images that can be stored in memory on the motherboard is a function of the amount of memory that is not needed by the operating system. XCAP requests 16 MB of memory for image buffers by default. If more memory is required for image sequences, the ''Driver Assistant'' in the ''PIXCI Open/Close'' menu should be used to set the reserved memory size.

The PIXCI imaging board can capture and store full resolution images to DRAM on a burst mode PCI motherboard provided that other devices do not significantly compete for PCI bus bandwidth. The data transfer capabilities of the motherboard may limit the size of the image that the PIXCI imaging board can transfer to memory on the motherboard. PCI bus transfers from other devices will compete for data transfer time with images to be transferred from the PIXCI imaging board to memory on the motherboard. The updating of clocks and other background tasks may interfere with the capture of images. These tasks should be disabled if error messages indicate that video transfers have been interrupted.

 

1.1. Computer

The PIXCI imaging board can capture and store full resolution images to DRAM on a 66 MHz, 64 bit or a PCI-X PCI motherboard provided that other devices do not significantly compete for PCI bus bandwidth. The PIXCI CL2 has been tested at sustained data rates of 400 megabytes per second. Higher data rates require a motherboard with sufficient buffering in the data paths to memory. EPIX sells imaging systems including camera(s), power supplies, monitors, and cables that have been tested to specific sustained data rates prior to shipment.

For fast display updates, EPIX recommends motherboards with an Advanced Graphics Port or a PCI Express based display system. For higher speed data acqusition rates, the display bandwidth may not be a concern.


 

 

 

2. Connectors

The PIXCI CL2 imaging board has two 26 pin Camera Link connectors and a 6 pin Lemo connector which are accessible thru the bracket that mounts the board to the computer chassis.

 

2.1. PIXCI CL2 26 Pin 3M MDR Connector P1

The 26 pin MDR connector P1 is a Camera Link Base configuration data and control connector as described in the Camera Link specification.

Signal Pin
Name Number

Inner Shield 13

Inner Shield 26

X0- 25

X0+ 12

X1- 24

X1+ 11

X2- 23

X2+ 10

XCLK- 22

XCLK+ 9

X3- 21

X3+ 8

SerTC+ 20

SerTC- 7

SerTFG- 19

SerTFG+ 6

CC1- 18

CC1+ 5

CC2- 4

CC2+ 17

CC3- 16

CC3+ 3

CC4- 2

CC4+ 15

Inner Shield 1

Inner Shield 14

 

2.2. PIXCI CL2 26 Pin 3M MDR Connector P2

The 26 pin MDR connector P2 is a Camera Link Medium and Full configuration data connector as described in the Camera Link specification.

Signal Pin
Name Number

Inner Shield 13

Inner Shield 26

Y0- 25

Y0+ 12

Y1- 24

Y1+ 11

Y2- 23

Y2+ 10

YCLK- 22

YCLK+ 9

Y3- 21

Y3+ 8

TERM+ 20

TERM- 7

Z0- 19

Z0+ 6

Z1- 18

Z1+ 5

Z2- 17

Z2+ 4

ZCLK- 16

ZCLK+ 3

Z3- 15

Z3+ 2

Inner Shield 1

Inner Shield 14


 

2.3. PIXCI CL2 10 Pin Header P3 Signal List

Signal IN/ Pin Pin IN/ Signal
Name OUT Number Number OUT Name

Ground 1 2 +5 VDC (0.75 Amp max)

NTRIG I 3 4 I PTRIG

NFEN I 5 6 I PFEN

NSTR O 7 8 O PSTR

NIO I/O 9 10 I/O PIO

P3 is for signals external or internal to the computer case. External signals can be connected with a cable to the 9 pin D-Subminiature connector thru a second slot with a bracket to mount the D-Subminiature connector. A differential to TTL conversion module and 2 meter cable are available for connecting TTL trigger, vertical drive, and strobe signals to the PIXCI CL2. The trigger input is also available on the round Lemo connector, P5.

P3 is located in the top left of the PIXCI CL2 with pin 1 in the upper left position and pin 2 in the upper right position. It is between Lemo connector P5 and Header P4.

Pin 1 is ground.

Pin 2 is +5 volts thru a 0.75 ampere resettable thermal fuse.

Pin 3, NTRIG, is a negative differential trigger input.

Pin 4, PTRIG, is a positive differential trigger input.

Pin 5, NFEN1, is the negative differential frame enable input for line scan applications.

Pin 6, PFEN1, is the positive differential frame enable input for line scan applications.

Pin 7, NSTR, is a negative differential strobe output.

Pin 8, PSTR, is a positive differential strobe output. The PSTR and NSTR signals are driven from the camera control state machine. The strobe signal is delayed by two state machine clocks from the exposure signal.

Pin 9, NIO, is a negative differential board-to-board signal which can be configured as an output, input, or both.

Pin 10, PIO, is a positive differential board to board signal which can be configured as an output, input, or both. The intended use for NIO and PIO is for board to board wiring of the exposure signal when multiple cameras must have the same exposure signal. One board is configured as a master (driver), the other boards as slaves (receivers).

 

2.4. PIXCI CL2 Lemo Connector P5 Signal List

A 6 position LEMO EGG.0B.306.CLL connector, P5, which is mounted at the top of the PCI bracket, has some of the same signals as P3 for connecting trigger inputs and outputs.

Pin 1 is ground.

Pin 2 is +5 volts thru a 0.75 ampere thermally triggered resettable fuse.

Pin 3, Trigger In P, is a positive LVDS differential trigger input, which is also connected to pin 3 of P3.

Pin 4, Trigger In M, is a negative LVDS differential trigger input, which is also connected to pin 4 of P3.

Pin 5, TRG0P, trigger output, is a copy of the negative differential trigger input for multiple board trigger.

Pin 6, TRGOM, trigger output, is a copy of the positive differential trigger input for multiple board trigger.

The TRGOP and TRGOM output signals are copies of the Trigger In+ and Trigger In- signals for daisy chaining the trigger input from board to board.

 

2.5. PIXCI CL2 10 Pin Header P4 Signal List

Header P4 is located at the top left of the board to the right of P3.

Signal IN/ Pin Pin IN/ Signal
Name OUT Number Number OUT Name

Ground 1 2 +12 VDC (fused at 0.75 A)

Out 1 Out 3 4 Ground

Out 2 Out 5 6 Ground

In 1 In 7 8 Ground

In 2 In 9 10 Ground

Pin 1 of P4 is in the upper left position.

Pin 1 is ground.

Pin 2 is +12 volts thru a 0.75 ampere thermal fuse. Pin 2 is in the upper right position.

Pin 3, OUT1, is a general purpose TTL output. It is not buffered and should be used only to drive other devices internal to the enclosure.

Pin 4 is ground.

Pin 5, OUT2, is a general purpose TTL output. It is not buffered and should be used only to drive other devices internal to the enclosure.

Pin 6 is ground.

Pin 7, IN1, is a general purpose TTL input. It is not buffered and should be used only to receive signals from other devices internal to the enclosure. IN1 is pulled up to 3.3 volts.

Pin 8 is ground.

Pin 9, IN2, is a general purpose TTL input. It is not buffered and should be used only to receive signals from other devices internal to the enclosure. IN2 is pulled up to 3.3 volts.

Pin 10 is ground.


 

 

 

3. Software Installation

XCAP-Plus, XCAP-Std, XCAP-Ltd, and XCAP-Lite are easy to install by following the instructions below.

While XCAP is easy to install, like most manufacturers of computer software, we recommend the precaution of performing a hard disk backup before installing XCAP.

 

3.1. For Windows 95, 98, ME

  1. Install Files:

    1. If XCAP is provided on diskette(s):

      1. Insert XCAP diskette #1 into the A: or B: drive.

      2. Execute the ''SETUP'' program, from a command prompt, or via the Windows ''Start'', ''Run'':
            > A:SETUP
        or
            > B:SETUP
        

      3. Follow the installation program's directions, such as to select an installation directory, and insert additional diskettes (depending upon version) as instructed. The default installation directory is C:\XCAP.

    2. If XCAP is provided on a compact disk (CD):

      1. If your computer is set to allow automatic execution of loaded CDs, the CD's interactive index program will be executed automatically. Otherwise, execute the index program, from a command prompt, or via the Windows ''Start'', ''Run'':
            > Z:SETUP       (replace Z with drive letter for your CD)
        

      2. Select ''Setup PIXCI(R) Imaging Software'' and ''XCAP Imaging Application''. Click ''OK''.

      3. Follow the installation program's directions, such as to select an installation directory. The default installation directory is C:\XCAP.

    3. If XCAP is provided via the internet:

      1. Download:
        ftp.epixinc.com/software/xcap_v30/XCAPWIN32.EXE (for 32 bit Windows)
        
        from the EPIX, Inc. ftp site.

      2. Execute the downloaded program, from a command prompt, or via the Windows ''Start'', ''Run'':
        > XCAPWIN32.EXE     (for 32 bit Windows)
        > XCAPWIN64.EXE     (for 32 bit Windows)
        

      3. Follow the installation program's directions, such as to select an installation directory. The default installation directory is C:\XCAP.

      4. Delete the downloaded .EXE file from your computer's hard drive.

    4. The installation procedure creates a new program group, containing XCAP and several .TXT files. The *.TXT files contain these installation instructions, a list of distributed files, corrections or additions to this manual, or other up-to-date information. The PCITIPS.TXT file provides the PC Configuration Tips, with tips for resolving hardware and software conflicts.

  2. Create Shortcut - Drag & Drop (optional):

    1. From the program group created by the installation program, click and drag the icon for XCAP over to the desktop and drop.

  3. Create Shortcut - Manual (optional):

    1. Right click on the Desktop.[1]

    2. Select ''New''.

    3. Select ''Shortcut''.

    4. Set:
          Command Line:   InstallDir \ XCAPWXX
          Name:           XCAP
      
      replacing ''InstallDir'' with the name of the installation directory chosen above. Select ''OK''.

  4. Install Authorization Key (for XCAP-Plus, XCAP-Std, and XCAP-Ltd):

    1. XCAP-Plus, XCAP-Std, and XCAP-Ltd, but not XCAP-Lite, are provided with either a printer port authorization key or a USB authorization key.

      The printer port authorization key is approximately the size and shape of a printer cable's connector (5.5×4.5×1.6 cm), but having 25-pin connectors at both ends and no cable attached. If provided, connect the authorization key to any printer port. If a printer cable was attached to the printer port, reconnect the printer cable to the back of the authorization key. The authorization key will not affect normal printer operation.

      Do not connect the printer port authorization key to a 25-pin serial (RS-232) port, or to any other interface that happens to use the same style connector; the authorization key will not function, might be permanently damaged, and the warranty will be void!

      The USB port authorization key is approximately the size of a small finger (6.0×1.6×0.8 cm), having a USB standard 4-pin connector at one end. If provided, connect the authorization key to a USB port. Operating system support for USB devices is required; XCAP does not add USB support to the operating system.

      The authorization key must remain attached, to the printer port or USB port as appropriate, while XCAP is running. If the authorization key is missing, or disconnected while XCAP is running, then XCAP-Plus, XCAP-Std or XCAP-Ltd, will behave similar to the XCAP-Lite version; selected image processing and analysis tools will not be operational.

    2. Run the authorization key utility program provided with XCAP by ''Start'', ''Run'':
          > C:\XCAP\HARDLOCK\HLDINST -install
      

    3. Or, in command prompt mode, switch to the chosen installation directory:
          > CHDIR C:\XCAP\HARDLOCK
      
      and execute:
           HLDINST  -install
      
      to run the authorization key utility program.

    4. For USB port authorization keys, in some versions of Windows 95 and 98, it is also necessary to:
          Start
          Settings
          Control Panel
          Add New Hardware
          ...
      

    5. Note that support for the USB port authorization key under Windows 95 requires OSR2 or later with the USB supplement.

  5. Install PIXCI® Imaging Board Driver:

    1. Under Windows 95, 98, and ME, the Windows' Device Manager must be used for initial installation of the PIXCI® driver.

      If the PIXCI® imaging board was not previously installed, the first time Windows starts after installation of the PIXCI® imaging board, Windows will notice the new device and inquire.

      The first time Windows 95 starts after installation of the PIXCI® imaging board, a window titled ''New Hardware Found'' appears; select ''Driver from disk provided by hardware manufacturer'', click ''OK''. A window stating ''Insert the manufacturer's installation disk ...'', ''Copy manufacturer's files from ...'' appears; click ''Browse'' enter path Drivers\Win95\EPIXXCW5.INF (or EPIXXC32.INF for version 2.0 and earlier) within the chosen installation directory, typically C:\XCAP, and click ''OK'', ''OK''. Do not accept the offer to ''Reboot''; a full shutdown and reboot is required. Some later releases of Windows 95 behave similar to Windows 98; the inquiries and responses may instead follow the steps below.

      The first time Windows 98 starts after installation of the PIXCI® imaging board, a pop-up window with the message ''New PCI Multimedia Device'' will flash. A window stating ''The wizard searches for new driver for PCI Multimedia Video Device'' appears; click ''Next'', select ''Search for the best driver for your device'', click ''Next''. A window stating ''Windows will search for new driver ...'' and ''Specify Location'' appears; enter path Drivers\Win98\EPIXXCW5.INF (or EPIXXC32.INF for version 2.0 and earlier) within the chosen installation directory, typically C:\XCAP, and click ''Next''. A window reports that a driver was found, namely ...\Drivers\Win98\EPIXXCW5.INF, click ''Next'' and ''Finish''.

      The first time Windows ME starts after installation of the PIXCI® imaging board, a pop-up window with the message ''New PCI Multimedia Device'' will flash. A window stating ''Windows has found the following new hardware: PCI Multimedia Video Device'' appears; select ''Specify the location of the driver (Advanced)'', click ''Next'', select ''Search for the best driver for your device'', check box ''Specify a Location'', Enter path Drivers\WinME within the chosen installation directory, typically C:\XCAP, and click ''Next''. A window reports that a driver was found, namely ...\Drivers\WinME\EPIXXCW5.INF, click ''Next'' and ''Finish''.

      If the PIXCI® imaging board was already installed under Windows 95 or 98, and ''Cancel'' was clicked when Windows started and announced the presence of new ''PCI Multimedia Hardware'', then instruct Windows to load the appropriate driver. Click ''Start'', ''Control Panel'', ''System'', ''Device Manager'', and under ''Other Devices'' double-click ''PCI MultiMedia Video Device'' or ''PIXCI(R) Video Capture Board''. Select ''Driver'', ''Change Driver'', ''Other''. Select ''PCI MultiMedia Video Device'' or ''PIXCI(R) Video Capture Board'', select ''Have Disk'', enter path Drivers\Win95 (Drivers\Win98 may be used interchangeably) within the chosen installation directory, typically C:\XCAP and click ''OK''.

      If the PIXCI® imaging board was already installed under Windows ME, and ''Cancel'' was clicked when Windows started and announced the presence of new ''PCI Multimedia Hardware'', then instruct Windows to load the appropriate driver. Click ''Start'', ''Settings'', ''Control Panel'', ''System'' (if ''System'' is not listed, click on ''View all Control Panel options''), ''Device Manager'' and under ''Other Devices'' double-click ''PCI MultiMedia Video Device'' or ''PIXCI(R) Video Capture Board''. Select ''Properties'', ''Driver'', ''Change Driver'' or ''Update Driver''. A window reporting ''This wizard searches for updated drivers for PCI MultiMedia Video Device'' or ''This wizard searches for updated drivers for PIXCI(R) Video Capture Board'' appears; select ''Specify the location of the driver (Advanced)'', ''Next'', ''Search for the best driver for your device'', ''Specify a Location'', enter path Drivers\WinME within the chosen installation directory, typically C:\XCAP, and click ''Next'', ''Next'', ''Finish''.

  6. Set Frame Buffer Memory Size (optional):

    1. By default, 4 MBytes of frame buffer memory is allocated.

    2. Under Windows 95, 98, and ME, frame buffer memory must be allocated during Windows' initialization, as specified in the Windows' SYSTEM.INI file. If additional frame buffer memory is desired, then at the end of the Windows' SYSTEM.INI file, add a section:
          [EPIX_XC]
          PIXCI=-IM <memorysize>
      
      replacing the ''<memorysize>'' with the desired memory size in kBytes. Windows must be rebooted for the new specification to take effect.

      Windows 95, 98, and ME limits the maximum amount of allocatable frame buffer memory, dependent upon what other devices are installed, the total computer memory size, and other factors.

      Windows may provide less frame buffer memory than was requested. If no memory could be allocated, the PIXCI® imaging board will not be usable; reporting ''Can't allocate frame buffer memory''. Otherwise, within XCAP, the amount of frame buffer memory can be checked under PIXCI®, PIXCI® Open/Close.

  7. Configure Graphics Display (S/VGA):

    1. A ''High Color (16 bit or 65536 Color)'', ''True Color (24 bit or 16777216 Color)'', or ''True Color (32 bit)'' setting for the graphics display system (S/VGA) is required for proper display of images and overlay graphics. The ''True Color (24 bit or 16777216 Color)'' or ''True Color (32 bit)'' is suggested for higher quality, and quicker, display of images and overlay graphics. This may be checked and/or modified via Windows ''Start'', ''Control Panel'', ''Display'', ''Settings''.

    2. In Windows 95, under ''Control Panel'', ''Display'', ''Plus!'', the ''Show window contents while dragging'' must be disabled (this feature is not present in older versions of Windows 95). Or in Windows 98/ME, under ''Control Panel'', ''Display'', ''Effects'', the ''Show window contents while dragging'' must be disabled.

    3. After changing the settings a full shutdown and CTRL+ALT+DEL reboot should be used. The quick restart offered by older versions of Windows 95, and the ''hot'' graphics display S/VGA reconfiguration performed by newer versions of Windows 95, may not re-initialize all devices properly.

  8. Reboot Windows.

  9. XCAP is now ready to run, by clicking the optional shortcut, or by clicking ''Start'', ''Programs'', ''XCAP Imaging'', and finally ''XCAP for Windows''.

 

3.2. Windows 95, 98, ME - Esoterica

3.2.1. Windows 95, 98, ME - Manual Installation

Use of EPIXXCW5.INF (or EPIXXC32.VXD for version 2.0 and earlier), above, provides automatic installation of EPIXXCW5.VXD (or EPIXXC32.VXD for version 2.0 and earlier) in most circumstances. The following information allows manual installation, correcting problems, or integration with an OEM's procedures.

  1. The EPIXXCW5.VXD (or EPIXXC32.VXD for version 2.0 and earlier) must be copied to the Windows SYSTEM directory, typically:
        C:\WINDOWS\SYSTEM
    

  2. Using the Registry Editor (REGEDIT) provided with Windows, create an entry such as:
        HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\System\CurrentControlSet\Services\Class\Unknown\0000
    
    replacing the \0000, if such an entry already exists, with the next available sequential number. This entry must contain:
        DevLoader=      "epixxc32.vxd"                      (for version 2.0-)
        DevLoader=      "epixxcw5.vxd"                      (for version 2.1+)
        DriverDesc=     "PIXCI(R) PCI Video Capture Board"  (optional)
        InfSection=     "Unknown"
        StaticVxD=      "epixxc32.vxd"                      (for version 2.0-)
        StaticVxD=      "epixxcw5.vxd"                      (for version 2.1+)
    

  3. Using the Registry Editor, edit the existing entry for PIXCI® SV2 or PIXCI® SV3:
    (Win 95)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_8086&DEV_1223\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    (Win 98)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_8086&DEV_1223&SUBSYS_00000000&REV_**\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    
    or the existing entry for PIXCI® SV4:
    (Win 95)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_109E&DEV_0350\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    (Win 98)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_109E&DEV_0350&SUBSYS_00000000&REV_**\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    
    or the existing entries for PIXCI® SV5 or SV5A:
    (Win 95)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_109E&DEV_036E\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    (Win 95)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_109E&DEV_0878\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    (Win 98)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_109E&DEV_036E&SUBSYS_00000000&REV_**\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    (Win 98)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_109E&DEV_0878&SUBSYS_00000000&REV_**\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    
    or the existing entries for PIXCI® SV6:
    (Win 95)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_14F1&DEV_8800\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    (Win 98)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_14F1&DEV_8800&SUBSYS_00000000&REV_**\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    
    or the existing entry for PIXCI® D, PIXCI® D24, or PIXCI® D32:
    (Win 95)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_10E8&DEV_80D6\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    (Win 98)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_10E8&DEV_80D6&SUBSYS_00000000&REV_**\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    
    or the existing entry for PIXCI® A:
    (Win 95)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_10E8&DEV_82B1\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    (Win 98)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_10E8&DEV_82B1&SUBSYS_00000000&REV_**\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    
    or the existing entry for PIXCI® CL3SD:
    (Win 95)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_C300\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    (Win 98)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_C300&SUBSYS_00000000&REV_**\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    
    or the existing entry for PIXCI® CL3SD:
    (Win 95)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_C301\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    (Win 98)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_C301&SUBSYS_00000000&REV_**\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    
    or the existing entry for PIXCI® CL1:
    (Win 95)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_C100\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    (Win 98)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_C100&SUBSYS_00000000&REV_**\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    
    or the existing entry for PIXCI® CL1:
    (Win 95)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_C10A\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    (Win 98)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_C10A&SUBSYS_00000000&REV_**\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    
    or the existing entry for PIXCI® CL2:
    (Win 95)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_C200\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    (Win 98)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_C200&SUBSYS_00000000&REV_**\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    
    or the existing entry for PIXCI® D2X:
    (Win 95)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_D200\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    (Win 98)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_D200&SUBSYS_00000000&REV_**\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    
    or the existing entry for PIXCI® D2X:
    (Win 95)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_D201\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    (Win 98)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_D201&SUBSYS_00000000&REV_**\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    
    or the existing entry for PIXCI® D2X:
    (Win 95)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_D20A\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    (Win 98)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_D20A&SUBSYS_00000000&REV_**\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    
    or the existing entry for PIXCI® D3X:
    (Win 95)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_D300\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    (Win 98)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_D300&SUBSYS_00000000&REV_**\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    
    or the existing entry for PIXCI® E1:
    (Win 95)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_E001\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    (Win 98)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_E001&SUBSYS_00000000&REV_**\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    
    or the existing entry for PIXCI® E1:
    (Win 95)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_E0A1\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    (Win 98)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_E0A1&SUBSYS_00000000&REV_**\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    
    or the existing entry for PIXCI® E4:
    (Win 95)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_E004\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    (Win 98)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_E004&SUBSYS_00000000&REV_**\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    
    or the existing entry for PIXCI® E1DB:
    (Win 95)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_ED01\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    (Win 98)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_ED01&SUBSYS_00000000&REV_**\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    
    or the existing entry for PIXCI® E1DB:
    (Win 95)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_EDA1\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    (Win 98)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_EDA1&SUBSYS_00000000&REV_**\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    
    or the existing entry for PIXCI® E4DB:
    (Win 95)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_ED04\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    (Win 98)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_ED04&SUBSYS_00000000&REV_**\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    
    or the existing entry for PIXCI® EC1:
    (Win 95)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_EC01\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    (Win 98)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_EC01&SUBSYS_00000000&REV_**\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    
    or the existing entry for PIXCI® EL1:
    (Win 95)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_F001\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    (Win 98)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_F001&SUBSYS_00000000&REV_**\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    
    or the existing entry for PIXCI® EL1:
    (Win 95)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_F0A1\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    (Win 98)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_F0A1&SUBSYS_00000000&REV_**\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    
    or the existing entry for PIXCI® EL1:
    (Win 95)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_F0F1\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    (Win 98)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_F0F1&SUBSYS_00000000&REV_**\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    
    or the existing entry for PIXCI® EL1DB:
    (Win 95)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_FD01\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    (Win 98)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_FD01&SUBSYS_00000000&REV_**\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    
    or the existing entry for PIXCI® EL1DB:
    (Win 95)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_FDF1\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    (Win 98)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_FDF1&SUBSYS_00000000&REV_**\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    
    or the existing entry for PIXCI® SI:
    (Win 95)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_C000\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    (Win 98)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_C000&SUBSYS_00000000&REV_**\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
    
    where the **'s may be any digits (assigned and created by Windows after detection of the PIXCI® imaging board).[2] This entry must contain:
        Class=          "Unknown"
        ConfigFlags=    00 00 00 00
        DeviceDesc=     "PIXCI(R) PCI Video Capture Board"    (optional)
        Driver=         "Unknown\0000"                        (substitute 0000)
        Mfg=            "EPIX, Inc."                          (optional)
    
    where the ''0000'' is replaced by the sequential number used in the previous step.

  4. Reboot Windows.

3.2.2. Windows 95, 98 - Forceful Frame Buffer Memory Allocation

As described above, frame buffer memory allocated by EPIXXCW5.VXD (or EPIXXC32.VXD for version 2.0 and earlier) during Windows startup is limited to a small percentage of total computer memory.

A larger frame buffer memory can often be obtained by reserving memory before Windows starts:

  1. In C:\CONFIG.SYS, add a line:[3]
        DEVICE=C:\XCAP\Drivers\Win95\EPIXXC.SYS -IM <framebuffermemorysize>
    
    or
        DEVICE=C:\XCAP\Drivers\Win95\EPIXXC.SYS -OS <reservememorysize>
    
    after DEVICE=HIMEM.SYS, replacing ''<framebuffermemorysize>'' with the desired frame buffer memory size, in kBytes. Alternately, the second form reserves ''<reservememorysize>'' kBytes, for Windows and allocates (almost) all of the remaining memory for use as frame buffer memory.

  2. Edit the Windows' SYSTEM.INI file, add a section:
        [EPIX_XC]
        PIXCI=-IM 0
    
    so that EPIXXCW5.VXD (or EPIXXC32.VXD for version 2.0 and earlier) doesn't reserve and then waste additional frame buffer memory.

  3. Reboot Windows.

This technique allows most of the computer's memory to be reserved as frame buffer memory (e.g. typically all but 8 or 16 MBytes, as required by Windows). However, the memory is unavailable to Windows, even when the PIXCI® imaging board's driver is not open.

If the specified amount of frame buffer memory could not be allocated, EPIXXC.SYS will attempt to allocate smaller amounts. If no memory can be allocated EPIXXC.SYS, will display an error message during Windows startup, and the PIXCI® imaging board will not be available, stating ''Can't allocate frame buffer memory''.

This alternate frame buffer allocation method is not available under Windows ME.

3.2.3. Windows ME - Forceful Frame Buffer Memory Allocation

As described above, frame buffer memory allocated by EPIXXCW5.VXD during Windows startup is limited to a small percentage of total computer memory.

A larger frame buffer memory can be obtained by limiting the amount of memory recognized by Windows ME, and then instructing EPIXXCW5.VXD to explicitly use a section of memory without allocating it from Windows:

  1. Restrict Windows to use no more than a set amount of memory: Edit the Windows' SYSTEM.INI file, add or modify the MaxPhysPage entry, specifying the maximum amount of memory to be used by Windows in units of 4096 byte pages, expressed in hexadecimal:
        [386Enh]
        MaxPhysPage=4000    ;; 64 MByte in 4096 byte pages, in hexadecimal
    

  2. Edit the Windows' SYSTEM.INI file, add a section and entry:
        [EPIX_XC]
        PIXCI= -IA <image_memory_adrs_in_kByte>
               -IM <size_of_image_memory_in_kByte>
               -MB <image_memory_partition_size_in_kByte>
    
    In practice, all three fields are on the same line.

    The -MB partition size specifies the size into which image memory is partitioned for the sake of virtual memory management: (a) Each frame buffer must be completely contained within a partition, (b) A value of 0 specifies that the entire image memory is to be handled as one partition, and (c) The maximum number of partitions is 256. For most systems, a value of 8192 or 16384 is suggested; though the value need not be a power of two. Systems with very high resolution cameras using large frame buffers should choose the partition size carefully, so as to minimize the unusable memory remaining, smaller than a frame buffer, at the end of each partition.

    When using more than 1 or 2 GBytes of image memory, it may be necessary to append:

        -MU 0x01
    
    to the ''PIXCI'' field, conserving system memory mapping resources by not mapping the image memory directly into the application program's space. It may also be necessary to append:
        -MU 0x03
    
    which additionally conserves system resources by mapping memory only on demand.

    Be careful that the -IA address is equal to (or above) the specified /MaxPhysPage limit - including exact base2 to base10 conversions! (i.e. for MaxPhysPage=4000 or 64 MByte, the smallest valid value of -IA is 65536, not 64000!). Likewise, be certain that the -IA plus -IM values do not exceed the amount of memory available!

  3. Reboot.

For example, for a computer with 256 MByte of memory, allocating 192 MByte for Windows and the remainder for frame buffer memory, use:

    MaxPhysPage=C000
and
    PIXCI = -IA 196608 -IM 65536 -MB 16384

3.2.4. Windows 95, 98, ME - Authorization Key - Manual Installation

Use of HLDINST.EXE, as described above, provides automatic installation of the printer port authorization key's driver, needed under Windows 95, 98, and ME, for XCAP-Plus, XCAP-Std, and XCAP-Ltd (but not needed for XCAP-Lite). The following information allows manual installation, correcting problems, or integration with an OEM's procedures for the printer port version of authorization keys.

  1. The file HARDLOCK.VXD must be copied to the Windows SYSTEM directory, typically:
        C:\WINDOWS\SYSTEM
    
    or placed within the XCAP installation directory, typically:
        C:\XCAP\PROGRAM
    
Normally, all LPT ports are scanned for the authorization key. Should other hardware use, or overlap, one of the LPT I/O port addresses, the search may be restricted to specific I/O ports. In AUTOEXEC.BAT, specifying:
    SET HL_SEARCH=378p
    SET HL_SEARCH=278p,378p
forces only the I/O port addresses listed (in hexadecimal) to be searched. Note that setting HL_SEARCH from a DOS box has no effect, as the setting is not ''carried back'' from DOS into the Windows 95, 98, or ME environment.

 

3.3. For Windows NT

XCAP requires Windows NT Version 4 with Service Pack 3 or later. You must be logged on as Administrator, or have equivalent privileges, to complete the installation procedure.

  1. Install Files:

    1. If XCAP is provided on diskette(s):

      1. Insert XCAP diskette #1 into the A: or B: drive.

      2. Execute the ''SETUP'' program, from a command prompt, or via the Windows ''Start'', ''Run'':
            > A:SETUP
        or
            > B:SETUP
        

      3. Follow the installation program's directions, such as to select an installation directory, and insert additional diskettes (depending upon version) as instructed. The default installation directory is C:\XCAP.

    2. If XCAP is provided on a compact disk (CD):

      1. If your computer is set to allow automatic execution of loaded CDs, the CD's interactive index program will be executed automatically. Otherwise, execute the index program, from a command prompt, or via the Windows ''Start'', ''Run'':
            > Z:SETUP       (replace Z with drive letter for your CD)
        

      2. Select ''Setup PIXCI(R) Imaging Software'' and ''XCAP Imaging Application''. Click ''OK''.

      3. Follow the installation program's directions, such as to select an installation directory. The default installation directory is C:\XCAP.

    3. If XCAP is provided via the internet:

      1. Download:
        ftp.epixinc.com/software/xcap_v30/XCAPWIN32.EXE (for 32 bit Windows)
        
        from the EPIX, Inc. ftp site.

      2. Execute the downloaded program, from a command prompt, or via the Windows ''Start'', ''Run'':
        > XCAPWIN32.EXE     (for 32 bit Windows)
        > XCAPWIN64.EXE     (for 32 bit Windows)
        

      3. Follow the installation program's directions, such as to select an installation directory. The default installation directory is C:\XCAP.

      4. Delete the downloaded .EXE file from your computer's hard drive.

    4. The installation procedure creates a new program group, containing XCAP and several .TXT files. The *.TXT files contain these installation instructions, a list of distributed files, corrections or additions to this manual, or other up-to-date information. The PCITIPS.TXT file provides the PC Configuration Tips, with tips for resolving hardware and software conflicts.

  2. Create Shortcut - Drag & Drop (optional):

    1. From the program group created by the installation program, click and drag the icon for XCAP over to the desktop and drop.

  3. Create Shortcut - Manual (optional):

    1. Right click on the Desktop.[4]

    2. Select ''New''.

    3. Select ''Shortcut''.

    4. Set:
          Command Line:   InstallDir \ XCAPWXX
          Name:           XCAP
      
      replacing ''InstallDir'' with the name of the installation directory chosen above. Select ''OK''.

  4. Install Authorization Key (for XCAP-Plus, XCAP-Std, and XCAP-Ltd):

    1. XCAP-Plus, XCAP-Std, and XCAP-Ltd, but not XCAP-Lite, are provided with either a printer port authorization key or a USB authorization key.

      The printer port authorization key is approximately the size and shape of a printer cable's connector (5.5×4.5×1.6 cm), but having 25-pin connectors at both ends and no cable attached. If provided, connect the authorization key to any printer port. If a printer cable was attached to the printer port, reconnect the printer cable to the back of the authorization key. The authorization key will not affect normal printer operation.

      Do not connect the printer port authorization key to a 25-pin serial (RS-232) port, or to any other interface that happens to use the same style connector; the authorization key will not function, might be permanently damaged, and the warranty will be void!

      The USB port authorization key is approximately the size of a small finger (6.0×1.6×0.8 cm), having a USB standard 4-pin connector at one end. If provided, connect the authorization key to a USB port. Operating system support for USB devices is required; XCAP does not add USB support to the operating system.

      The authorization key must remain attached, to the printer port or USB port as appropriate, while XCAP is running. If the authorization key is missing, or disconnected while XCAP is running, then XCAP-Plus, XCAP-Std or XCAP-Ltd, will behave similar to the XCAP-Lite version; selected image processing and analysis tools will not be operational.

    2. Run the authorization key utility program provided with XCAP by ''Start'', ''Run'':
          > C:\XCAP\HARDLOCK\HLDINST -install
      

    3. Or, in command prompt mode, switch to the chosen installation directory:
          > CHDIR C:\XCAP\HARDLOCK
      
      and execute:
           HLDINST  -install
      
      to run the authorization key utility program.

  5. Install PIXCI® Imaging Board Driver:

    1. If the PIXCI® imaging board's driver was not loaded when the computer was powered up (as described under Hardware Installation), instruct Windows to load the appropriate driver: Click ''Start'', ''Programs'', and ''Windows NT Explorer''. Within the chosen installation directory, such as C:\XCAP, find and highlight file Drivers\WinNT\EPIXXCWT.INF (or EPIXXCNT.INF for version 2.0 and earlier). From the menu bar, select ''File'' and ''Install''.

  6. Configure Graphics Display (S/VGA):

    1. A ''High Color (16 bit or 65536 Color)'', ''True Color (24 bit or 16777216 Color)'', or ''True Color (32 bit)'' setting for the graphics display (S/VGA) is required for proper display of images and overlay graphics. The ''True Color (24 bit or 16777216 Color)'' or ''True Color (32 bit)'' is suggested for higher quality, and quicker, display of images and overlay graphics. This may be checked and/or modified via Windows ''Start'', ''Settings'', ''Control Panel'', ''Display'', ''Settings''.

    2. Under ''Start'', ''Settings'', ''Control Panel'', ''Display'', ''Effects'', the ''Show window contents while dragging'' must be disabled.

  7. Reboot Windows.

  8. XCAP is now ready to run, by clicking the optional shortcut, or by clicking ''Start'', ''Programs'', ''XCAP Imaging'', and finally ''XCAP for Windows''.

 

3.4. Windows NT Esoterica

3.4.1. Windows NT - Manual Installation

Use of EPIXXCWT.INF (or EPIXXCNT.INF for version 2.0 and earlier), above, provides automatic installation of EPIXXCWT.SYS (or EPIXXCNT.SYS for version 2.0 and earlier) in most circumstances. The following information allows manual installation, correcting problems, or integration with an OEM's procedures.

  1. The EPIXXCWT.SYS (or EPIXXCNT.SYS for version 2.0 and earlier) must be copied to the Windows SYSTEM32\DRIVERS directory, typically:
        C:\WINNT\SYSTEM32\DRIVERS
    

  2. Using the Registry Editor (REGEDIT) provided with Windows, create an entry such as:
        HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\EPIXXCWT  (version 2.1+)
        HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\EPIXXCNT  (version 2.0-)
    
    This entry must contain:
        ErrorControl  =  0x00000001
        Group         =  "Extended base"
        Start         =  0x00000001
        Type          =  0x00000001
    
    and may, as described below, also contain:
        PIXCI         =  "-IM <memorysize>"
    
    Create an entry such as:
        HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\EventLog\System\EPIXXCWT  (version 2.1+)
        HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\EventLog\System\EPIXXCNT  (version 2.0-)
    
    This entry must contain:
        EventMessageFile = "%SystemRoot%\System32\IoLogMsg.dll"
        TypesSupported   = 0x00000007
    

  3. Shut down and restart Windows.

3.4.2. Windows NT - Frame Buffer Memory Allocation

Under Windows NT, frame buffer memory must be allocated during Windows' initialization.

The requested frame buffer memory size must be specified in the Registry entry described above, using an entry named ''PIXCI'', such as:

    PIXCI         =  "-IM <memorysize>"
replacing the ''<memorysize>'' with the desired memory size in kBytes. If no frame buffer memory size is specified, a default size of 32768 kBytes is used. Windows must be rebooted for the new specification to take effect.

Optionally,

    "-MB <memory_partition_size>"
specifies that the requested
    "-IM <memorysize>"
is to be allocated in blocks or partitions of the stated size. Requesting memory partitioned into blocks may allow receiving more memory that would be available as a single block. However, (a) Each frame buffer must be completely contained within a partition, and (b) The maximum number of partitions is 256. Systems with very high resolution cameras using large frame buffers should choose the partition size carefully, so as to minimize the unusable memory remaining, smaller than a frame buffer, at the end of each partition.

For the PIXCI® CL3SD, which has on-board frame buffer memory, memory reserved by the -IM parameter is needed only for support of time stamping of captured frames, such as optionally used by XCAP's Capture - Video to Frame Buffers. Currently, 64 bytes are needed for each frame buffer's status.

Windows NT limits the maximum amount of allocatable frame buffer memory, dependent upon what other devices are installed, the total computer memory size, and other factors. Using the Control Panel's Device Manager to select Boot or System priority startup for EPIXXCWT.SYS (or EPIXXCNT.SYS for version 2.0 and earlier) allows more frame buffer memory to be allocated than selection of Automatic startup.

Windows may provide less frame buffer memory than was requested. If no memory could be allocated, the PIXCI® imaging board will not be available, stating ''Can't allocate frame buffer memory''. Otherwise, within XCAP, the number of available frame buffers can be checked under PIXCI®, PIXCI® Video Setup, Resolution. As the frame buffer memory is allocated once during Windows initialization; the contents of frame buffers are retained as XCAP is closed and restarted, but lost if Windows is restarted.

3.4.3. Windows NT - Forceful Frame Buffer Memory Allocation

As described above, frame buffer memory allocated by EPIXXCWT.SYS (or EPIXXCNT.SYS for version 2.0 and earlier) during Windows startup may be limited to a small percentage of total computer memory.

A larger frame buffer memory can be obtained by limiting the amount of memory recognized by Windows NT, and then instructing EPIXXCWT.SYS (or EPIXXCNT.SYS for version 2.0 and earlier) to explicitly use a section of memory without allocating it from Windows NT:

  1. Edit C:\BOOT.INI, restricting Windows NT to use no more than a set amount of memory: by copying an existing configuration line, adding /MAXMEM=XX (where XX is the memory size in MByte) and changing the prompt name. For example, changing:
        [operating systems]
        multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(7)\WINNT="Windows NT V 4.00"
    
    to:
        [operating systems]
        multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(7)\WINNT="Windows NT V 4.00 [NT=64M PIXCI=256M]"  /MAXMEM=64
        multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(7)\WINNT="Windows NT V 4.00"
    
    Do not copy this new line as shown above; the first portion of the line must be copied from an existing configuration line in your C:\BOOT.INI file. The text between quotes appears as a boot selection prompt, use of ''[NT=64M PIXCI=256M]'' is a suggested reminder, but not required.

    Also in C:\BOOT.INI, change the timeout selection to be greater than 0:

        [boot loader]
        timeout=30
    
    Otherwise the BOOT.INI configuration options will not be shown when Windows starts.

    Keeping the original configuration line, as a boot selection option, is highly recommended as a backup.

  2. Edit the registry entry:
        HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\EPIXXCWT  (version 2.1+)
        HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\EPIXXCNT  (version 2.0-)
    
    On the ''PIXCI'' field add:
        -IA <image_memory_adrs_in_kByte>
        -IM <size_of_image_memory_in_kByte>
        -MB <image_memory_partition_size_in_kByte>
        -BH <size_of_BIOS_hole_below_4GB_in_kByte>
    
    In practice, all four fields are on the same line.

    The -MB partition size specifies the size into which image memory is partitioned for the sake of virtual memory management: (a) Each frame buffer must be completely contained within a partition, (b) A value of 0 specifies that the entire image memory is to be handled as one partition, and (c) The maximum number of partitions is 256. For most systems, a value of 8192 or 16384 is suggested; though the value need not be a power of two. Systems with very high resolution cameras using large frame buffers should choose the partition size carefully, so as to minimize the unusable memory remaining, smaller than a frame buffer, at the end of each partition.

    When using more than 1 or 2 GBytes of image memory, it may be necessary to append:

        -MU 0x01
    
    to the ''PIXCI'' field, conserving system memory mapping resources by not mapping the image memory directly into the application program's space. It may also be necessary to append:
        -MU 0x03
    
    which additionally conserves system resources by mapping memory only on demand.

    Be careful that the -IA address is equal to (or above) the specified /MAXMEM limit - including exact base2 to base10 conversions! (i.e. for /MAXMEM=64, the smallest valid value of -IA is 65536, not 64000!). Likewise, be certain that the -IA plus -IM values do not exceed the amount of memory available!

    On a computer populated with 4 or more GBytes of memory, some of the memory directly below the 4 GByte address overlaps other hardware resources such as BIOS, memory mapped I/O, PCI configuration space, etc.[5] and is unavailable to either the operating system or for use as frame buffers. The usable frame buffer memory is therefore reduced by the amount by which the -IA address up to the -IA address plus -IM size overlap the 4 GByte address minus -BH size up to the 4 GByte address. The -BH size may be set to 0 (or not specified) if the computer has significantly less than 4 GBytes of memory.

  3. Reboot, using the newly added boot selection.

For example, for a computer with 1 GByte of memory, allocating 256 MByte for Windows and the remainder for frame buffer memory, use:

    /MAXMEM=256
in C:\BOOT.INI, and use:
    PIXCI = -IA 262144 -IM 786432 -MB 8192
in the registry entry. Note that 262144 is 256×1024, and 786432 is (1024-256)×1024.

Note that if this memory allocation method is used, program access to image data may be slower. Thus, the video display rate (and image processing) may be slower, but the video capture rate (such as sequence capture) is not adversely affected. This method of memory allocation is primarily used for video rate acquisition of long sequences, followed by off-line analysis or saving of the sequence.

3.4.4. Windows NT - Authorization Key - Manual Installation

Use of HLDINST.EXE, as described above, provides automatic installation of the printer port authorization key's driver, needed under Windows NT, for XCAP-Plus, XCAP-Std, and XCAP-Ltd (but not needed for XCAP-Lite). The following information allows manual installation, correcting problems, or integration with an OEM's procedures for the printer port version of authorization keys.

  1. The file HARDLOCK.SYS must be copied to the Windows SYSTEM32\DRIVERS directory, typically:
        C:\WINNT\SYSTEM32\DRIVERS
    

  2. The file HLVDD.DLL must copied to the Windows SYSTEM directory, typically:
        C:\WINNT\SYSTEM
    
    or placed within the XCAP installation directory, typically:
        C:\XCAP\PROGRAM
    

  3. Using the Registry Editor (REGEDIT) provided with Windows, create an entry such as:
        HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\HardLock
    
    This key must contain values:
        ErrorControl  =  0x00000001
        Group         =  "Extended Base"
        Start         =  0x00000002
        Type          =  0x00000001
    
    or, if using REGEDT32, the values should appear as:
        ErrorControl:REG_DWORD:0x1
        Group:REG_SZ:ExtendedBase
        Start:REG_DWORD:0x2
        Type:REG_DWORD:0x1
    

  4. Shut down and restart Windows for the new registry entries to take effect.

  5. If the authorization key is connected to a non-standard printer port, an additional entry may be required:
        HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\HardLock\Parameters
    
    which contains a value:
        IoPortAddress0  = 0x????            (for REGEDIT)
        IoPortAddress0:REG_DWORD:0x????     (for REGEDT32)
    
    where the ''????'' is replaced with the parallel port's I/O address in hexadecimal. As before, Windows must be shut down and restarted.

 

3.5. For Windows 2000

  1. Install Files:

    1. If XCAP is provided on diskette(s):

      1. Insert XCAP diskette #1 into the A: or B: drive.

      2. Execute the ''SETUP'' program, from a command prompt, or via the Windows ''Start'', ''Run'':
            > A:SETUP
        or
            > B:SETUP
        

      3. Follow the installation program's directions, such as to select an installation directory, and insert additional diskettes (depending upon version) as instructed. The default installation directory is C:\XCAP.

    2. If XCAP is provided on a compact disk (CD):

      1. If your computer is set to allow automatic execution of loaded CDs, the CD's interactive index program will be executed automatically. Otherwise, execute the index program, from a command prompt, or via the Windows ''Start'', ''Run'':
            > Z:SETUP       (replace Z with drive letter for your CD)
        

      2. Select ''Setup PIXCI(R) Imaging Software'' and ''XCAP Imaging Application''. Click ''OK''.

      3. Follow the installation program's directions, such as to select an installation directory. The default installation directory is C:\XCAP.

    3. If XCAP is provided via the internet:

      1. Download:
        ftp.epixinc.com/software/xcap_v30/XCAPWIN32.EXE (for 32 bit Windows)
        
        from the EPIX, Inc. ftp site.

      2. Execute the downloaded program, from a command prompt, or via the Windows ''Start'', ''Run'':
        > XCAPWIN32.EXE     (for 32 bit Windows)
        > XCAPWIN64.EXE     (for 32 bit Windows)
        

      3. Follow the installation program's directions, such as to select an installation directory. The default installation directory is C:\XCAP.

      4. Delete the downloaded .EXE file from your computer's hard drive.

    4. The installation procedure creates a new program group, containing XCAP and several .TXT files. The *.TXT files contain these installation instructions, a list of distributed files, corrections or additions to this manual, or other up-to-date information. The PCITIPS.TXT file provides the PC Configuration Tips, with tips for resolving hardware and software conflicts.

  2. Create Shortcut - Drag & Drop (optional):

    1. From the program group created by the installation program, click and drag the icon for XCAP over to the desktop and drop.

  3. Create Shortcut - Manual (optional):

    1. Right click on the Desktop.[6]

    2. Select ''New''.

    3. Select ''Shortcut''.

    4. Set:
          Command Line:   InstallDir \ XCAPWXX
          Name:           XCAP
      
      replacing ''InstallDir'' with the name of the installation directory chosen above. Select ''OK''.

  4. Install Authorization Key (for XCAP-Plus, XCAP-Std, and XCAP-Ltd):

    1. XCAP-Plus, XCAP-Std, and XCAP-Ltd, but not XCAP-Lite, are provided with either a printer port authorization key or a USB authorization key.

      The printer port authorization key is approximately the size and shape of a printer cable's connector (5.5×4.5×1.6 cm), but having 25-pin connectors at both ends and no cable attached. If provided, connect the authorization key to any printer port. If a printer cable was attached to the printer port, reconnect the printer cable to the back of the authorization key. The authorization key will not affect normal printer operation.

      Do not connect the printer port authorization key to a 25-pin serial (RS-232) port, or to any other interface that happens to use the same style connector; the authorization key will not function, might be permanently damaged, and the warranty will be void!

      The USB port authorization key is approximately the size of a small finger (6.0×1.6×0.8 cm), having a USB standard 4-pin connector at one end. If provided, connect the authorization key to a USB port. Operating system support for USB devices is required; XCAP does not add USB support to the operating system.

      The authorization key must remain attached, to the printer port or USB port as appropriate, while XCAP is running. If the authorization key is missing, or disconnected while XCAP is running, then XCAP-Plus, XCAP-Std or XCAP-Ltd, will behave similar to the XCAP-Lite version; selected image processing and analysis tools will not be operational.

    2. Run the authorization key utility program provided with XCAP by ''Start'', ''Run'':
          > C:\XCAP\HARDLOCK\HLDINST -install
      

    3. Or, in command prompt mode, switch to the chosen installation directory:
          > CHDIR C:\XCAP\HARDLOCK
      
      and execute:
           HLDINST  -install
      
      to run the authorization key utility program.

  5. Install PIXCI® Imaging Board Driver:

    1. Under Windows 2000, the Windows' Device Manager must be used for initial installation of the PIXCI® driver.

      If the PIXCI® imaging board was not previously installed, the first time Windows starts after installation of the PIXCI® imaging board, Windows will notice the new device and inquire.

      The first time Windows 2000 starts after installation of the PIXCI® imaging board, a pop-up window with the message "Multimedia Video Controller" will flash. A window stating ''Welcome to the Found New Hardware Wizard'' appears; click ''Next'', select ''Search for the best driver for your device'', click ''Next'', check box ''Specify a location'', enter path Drivers\Win2K within the chosen installation directory, typically C:\XCAP, and click ''Next''. A window reports that a driver was found, namely ...\Drivers\Win2K\EPIXXCW2.INF; click ''Next''. A window reports that Microsoft's ''Digital Signature was not found''; click ''Yes''. A window states ''Completing the Found New Hardware Wizard'' and ''This device is not configured correctly. (Code 1)'' (this error indicates that the newly installed driver will be functional only after a reboot); click ''Finish'' and restart Windows.

      If the PIXCI® imaging board was already installed, and ''Cancel'' was clicked when Windows started and announced the presence of a new ''Multimedia Video Controller'', then instruct Windows to load the appropriate driver. Click ''Start'', ''Settings'', ''Control Panel'', ''System'' (if ''System'' is not listed, click on ''View all Control Panel options''), ''Device Manager'', and under ''Other Devices'' or ''Imaging Devices'' double-click ''PCI MultiMedia Video Device'' or ''PIXCI(R) Video Capture Board''. Click ''Properties'', ''Driver'', ''Change Driver'' or ''Update Driver''. A window stating ''Welcome'' appears; click ''Next''. A window stating ''This wizard searches for updated drivers for: PCI MultiMedia Video Device'' or ''This wizard searches for updated drivers for: PIXCI(R) Video Capture Board'' appears; select ''Search for a suitable driver for my device (recommended)'', click ''Next'', select ''Specify a Location'', enter path Drivers\Win2K within the chosen installation directory, typically C:\XCAP, and click ''Next'', ''Next''. A window reports that Microsoft's: ''Digital Signature was not found''; click ''Yes''. A window reports ''This device is not configured correctly. (Code 1)'' (this error indicates that the newly installed driver will be functional only after a reboot); click ''Finish'' and restart Windows.

  6. Configure Graphics Display (S/VGA):

    1. A ''High Color (16 bit or 65536 Color)'', ''True Color (24 bit or 16777216 Color)'', or ''True Color (32 bit)'' setting for the graphics display (S/VGA) is required for proper display of images and overlay graphics. The ''True Color (24 bit or 16777216 Color)'' or ''True Color (32 bit)'' is suggested for higher quality, and quicker, display of images and overlay graphics. This may be checked and/or modified via Windows ''Start'', ''Settings'', ''Control Panel'', ''Display'', ''Settings''.

    2. Under ''Start'', ''Settings'', ''Control Panel'', ''Display'', ''Effects'', the ''Show window contents while dragging'' must be disabled.

  7. Reboot Windows.

  8. XCAP is now ready to run, by clicking the optional shortcut, or by clicking ''Start'', ''Programs'', ''XCAP Imaging'', and finally ''XCAP for Windows''.

 

3.6. Windows 2000 Esoterica

3.6.1. Windows 2000 - Manual Installation

Use of EPIXXCW2.INF (or EPIXXCNT.INF for version 2.0 and earlier), above, provides automatic installation of EPIXXCW2.SYS (or EPIXXCNT.SYS for version 2.0 and earlier) in most circumstances. The following information allows manual installation, correcting problems, or integration with an OEM's procedures.

  1. The EPIXXCW2.SYS (or EPIXXCNT.SYS for version 2.0 and earlier) must be copied to the Windows SYSTEM32\DRIVERS directory, typically:
        C:\WINNT\SYSTEM32\DRIVERS
    

  2. Using the Registry Editor (REGEDIT) provided with Windows, create an entry such as:
        HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\EPIXXCW2  (version 2.1+)
        HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\EPIXXCNT  (version 2.0-)
    
    This entry must contain:
        ErrorControl  =  0x00000001
        Group         =  "Extended base"
        Start         =  0x00000001
        Type          =  0x00000001
    
    and may, as described below, also contain:
        PIXCI         =  "-IM <memorysize>"
    
    Create an entry such as:
        HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\EventLog\System\EPIXXCW2  (version 2.1+)
        HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\EventLog\System\EPIXXCNT  (version 2.0-)
    
    This entry must contain:
        EventMessageFile = "%SystemRoot%\System32\IoLogMsg.dll"
        TypesSupported   = 0x00000007
    

  3. Shut down and restart Windows.

Under Windows 2000, the Windows NT driver EPIXXCWT.SYS can be, and was previously, used instead of EPIXXCW2.SYS. In contrast to EPIXXCWT.SYS, the EPIXXCW2.SYS is Plug & Play compatible.

3.6.2. Windows 2000 - Frame Buffer Memory Allocation

Under Windows 2000 frame buffer memory must be allocated during Windows' initialization.

The requested frame buffer memory size must be specified in the Registry entry described above, using an entry named ''PIXCI'', such as:

    PIXCI         =  "-IM <memorysize>"
replacing the ''<memorysize>'' with the desired memory size in kBytes. If no frame buffer memory size is specified, a default size of 32768 kBytes is used. Windows must be rebooted for the new specification to take effect.

Optionally,

    "-MB <memory_partition_size>"
specifies that the requested
    "-IM <memorysize>"
is to be allocated in blocks or partitions of the stated size. Requesting memory partitioned into blocks may allow receiving more memory that would be available as a single block. However, (a) Each frame buffer must be completely contained within a partition, and (b) The maximum number of partitions is 256. Systems with very high resolution cameras using large frame buffers should choose the partition size carefully, so as to minimize the unusable memory remaining, smaller than a frame buffer, at the end of each partition.

For the PIXCI® CL3SD, which has on-board frame buffer memory, memory reserved by the -IM parameter is needed only for support of time stamping of captured frames, such as optionally used by Capture - Video to Frame Buffers. Currently, 64 bytes are needed for each frame buffer's status.

Windows 2000 limits the maximum amount of allocatable frame buffer memory, dependent upon what other devices are installed, the total computer memory size, and other factors. Under Windows 2000, the maximum amount of memory that can be allocated by this method is typically limited to 64 or 92 MByte.

Windows may provide less frame buffer memory than was requested. If no memory could be allocated, the PIXCI® imaging board will not be available, stating ''Can't allocate frame buffer memory''. Otherwise, within XCAP, the number of available frame buffers can be checked under PIXCI®, PIXCI® Video Setup, Resolution. As the frame buffer memory is allocated once during Windows initialization; the contents of frame buffers are retained as XCAP is closed and restarted, but lost if Windows is restarted.

As described above, frame buffer memory allocated by EPIXXCW2.SYS for Windows 2000, during Windows startup may be limited to a small percentage of total computer memory; typically 64 to 96 MByte.

A larger frame buffer memory can be obtained by limiting the amount of memory recognized by Windows and then instructing EPIXXCW2.SYS for Windows 2000 to explicitly use a section of memory without allocating it from Windows 2000:

  1. Edit C:\BOOT.INI, restricting Windows 2000 to use no more than a set amount of memory: by copying an existing configuration line, adding /MAXMEM=XX (where XX is the memory size in MByte) and changing the prompt name. For example, changing:
        [operating systems]
        multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(7)\WINNT="Windows 2000"
    
    to:
        [operating systems]
        multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(7)\WINNT="Windows 2000 [NT=64M PIXCI=256M]"  /MAXMEM=64
        multi(0)disk(0)rdisk(0)partition(7)\WINNT="Windows 2000"
    
    Do not copy this new line as shown above; the first portion of the line must be copied from an existing configuration line in your C:\BOOT.INI file. The text between quotes appears as a boot selection prompt, use of ''[NT=64M PIXCI=256M]'' is a suggested reminder, but not required.

    Also in C:\BOOT.INI, change the timeout selection to be greater than 0:

        [boot loader]
        timeout=30
    
    Otherwise the BOOT.INI configuration options will not be shown when Windows starts.

    Keeping the original configuration line, as a boot selection option, is highly recommended as a backup.

    Under Windows XP, the BOOTCFG command, provided with Windows, can be used to change the BOOT.INI file instead of manual editing.

  2. Edit the registry entry:
        HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\EPIXXCW2
    
    On the ''PIXCI'' field add:
        -IA <image_memory_adrs_in_kByte>
        -IM <size_of_image_memory_in_kByte>
        -MB <image_memory_partition_size_in_kByte>
        -BH <size_of_BIOS_hole_below_4GB_in_kByte>
    
    In practice, all four fields are on the same line.

    The -MB partition size specifies the size into which image memory is partitioned for the sake of virtual memory management: (a) Each frame buffer must be completely contained within a partition, (b) A value of 0 specifies that the entire image memory is to be handled as one partition, and (c) The maximum number of partitions is 256. For most systems, a value of 8192 or 16384 is suggested; though the value need not be a power of two. Systems with very high resolution cameras using large frame buffers should choose the partition size carefully, so as to minimize the unusable memory remaining, smaller than a frame buffer, at the end of each partition.

    When using more than 1 or 2 GBytes of image memory, it may be necessary to append:

        -MU 0x01
    
    to the ''PIXCI'' field, conserving system memory mapping resources by not mapping the image memory directly into the application program's space. It may also be necessary to append:
        -MU 0x03
    
    which additionally conserves system resources by mapping memory only on demand.

    Be careful that the -IA address is equal to (or above) the specified /MAXMEM limit - including exact base2 to base10 conversions! (i.e. for /MAXMEM=64, the smallest valid value of -IA is 65536, not 64000!). Likewise, be certain that the -IA plus -IM values do not exceed the amount of memory available!

    On a computer populated with 4 or more GBytes of memory, some of the memory directly below the 4 GByte address overlaps other hardware resources such as BIOS, memory mapped I/O, PCI configuration space, etc.[7] and is unavailable to either the operating system or for use as frame buffers. The usable frame buffer memory is therefore reduced by the amount by which the -IA address up to the -IA address plus -IM size overlap the 4 GByte address minus -BH size up to the 4 GByte address. The -BH size may be set to 0 (or not specified) if the computer has significantly less than 4 GBytes of memory.

  3. Reboot, using the newly added boot selection.

For example, for a computer with 1 GByte of memory, allocating 256 MByte for Windows and the remainder for frame buffer memory, use:

    /MAXMEM=256
in C:\BOOT.INI, and use:
    PIXCI = -IA 262144 -IM 786432 -MB 8192
in the registry entry. Note that 262144 is 256×1024, and 786432 is (1024-256)×1024.

Note that if this memory allocation method is used, program access to image data may be slower. Thus, the video display rate (and image processing) may be slower, but the video capture rate (such as sequence capture) is not adversely affected. This method of memory allocation is primarily used for video rate acquisition of long sequences, followed by off-line analysis or saving of the sequence.

Use of HLDINST.EXE, as described above, provides automatic installation of the printer port authorization key's driver, needed under Windows 2000 for XCAP-Plus, XCAP-Std, and XCAP-Ltd (but not needed for XCAP-Lite). The following information allows manual installation, correcting problems, or integration with an OEM's procedures for the printer port version of authorization keys.

  1. The file HARDLOCK.SYS must be copied to the Windows SYSTEM32\DRIVERS directory, typically:
        C:\WINNT\SYSTEM32\DRIVERS
    

  2. Using the Registry Editor (REGEDIT) provided with Windows, create an entry such as:
        HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\HardLock
    
    This key must contain values:
        ErrorControl  =  0x00000001
        Group         =  "Extended Base"
        Start         =  0x00000002
        Type          =  0x00000001
    
    or, if using REGEDT32, the values should appear as:
        ErrorControl:REG_DWORD:0x1
        Group:REG_SZ:ExtendedBase
        Start:REG_DWORD:0x2
        Type:REG_DWORD:0x1
    

  3. Shut down and restart Windows for the new registry entries to take effect.

  4. If the authorization key is connected to a non-standard printer port, an additional entry may be required:
        HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\HardLock\Parameters
    
    which contains a value:
        IoPortAddress0  = 0x????            (for REGEDIT)
        IoPortAddress0:REG_DWORD:0x????     (for REGEDT32)
    
    where the ''????'' is replaced with the parallel port's I/O address in hexadecimal. As before, Windows must be shut down and restarted.

 

3.7. For Windows XP, XP(x64) Server 2003

  1. Install Files:
      .so ../softinst/insw48fi.man

  2. Create Shortcut - Drag & Drop (optional):

    1. From the program group created by the installation program, click and drag the icon for XCAP over to the desktop and drop.

  3. Create Shortcut - Manual (optional):

    1. Right click on the Desktop.[8]

    2. Select ''New''.

    3. Select ''Shortcut''.

    4. Set:
          Command Line:   InstallDir \ XCAPWXX
          Name:           XCAP
      
      replacing ''InstallDir'' with the name of the installation directory chosen above. Select ''OK''.

  4. Install Authorization Key (for XCAP-Plus, XCAP-Std, and XCAP-Ltd):

    1. XCAP-Plus, XCAP-Std, and XCAP-Ltd, but not XCAP-Lite, are provided with either a printer port authorization key or a USB authorization key.

      The printer port authorization key is approximately the size and shape of a printer cable's connector (5.5×4.5×1.6 cm), but having 25-pin connectors at both ends and no cable attached. If provided, connect the authorization key to any printer port. If a printer cable was attached to the printer port, reconnect the printer cable to the back of the authorization key. The authorization key will not affect normal printer operation.

      Do not connect the printer port authorization key to a 25-pin serial (RS-232) port, or to any other interface that happens to use the same style connector; the authorization key will not function, might be permanently damaged, and the warranty will be void!

      The USB port authorization key is approximately the size of a small finger (6.0×1.6×0.8 cm), having a USB standard 4-pin connector at one end. If provided, connect the authorization key to a USB port. Operating system support for USB devices is required; XCAP does not add USB support to the operating system.

      The authorization key must remain attached, to the printer port or USB port as appropriate, while XCAP is running. If the authorization key is missing, or disconnected while XCAP is running, then XCAP-Plus, XCAP-Std or XCAP-Ltd, will behave similar to the XCAP-Lite version; selected image processing and analysis tools will not be operational.

    2. Run the authorization key utility program provided with XCAP by ''Start'', ''Run'':
          > C:\XCAP\HARDLOCK\HLDINST -install
      

    3. Or, in command prompt mode, switch to the chosen installation directory:
          > CHDIR C:\XCAP\HARDLOCK
      
      and execute:
           HLDINST  -install
      
      to run the authorization key utility program.

  5. Install PIXCI® Imaging Board Driver:

    1. Under Windows XP, XP(x64), or Server 2003, the Windows' Device Manager must be used for initial installation of the PIXCI® driver.

      If the PIXCI® imaging board was not previously installed, the first time Windows starts after installation of the PIXCI® imaging board, Windows will notice the new device and inquire.

      The first time Windows XP, XP(x64), or Server 2003 starts after installation of the PIXCI® imaging board, a pop-up window with the message ''Multimedia Video Controller'' will flash. A window stating ''Welcome to the Found New Hardware Wizard'' appears; select ''Install from a list or a specific location. (Advanced)'', click ''Next'', select ''Search for the best driver in these locations'', uncheck box ''Search removable storage media'', check box ''Include this location in the search'', enter path Drivers\WinXP, or Drivers\WinXP64 for Windows XP(x64), within the chosen installation directory typically C:\XCAP, and click ''Next''. A window reports that a driver was found, namely ...\Drivers\WinXP\EPIXXCW2.INF, Or ...\Drivers\WinXP64\EPIXXCW6.INF for Windows XP(x64), click ''Next''. A window states ''The software that you are installing for ... has not passed compatibility testing''; click ''Continue Anyway''. A window states ''Completing the Found New Hardware Wizard'' and ''The hardware you installed will not work until you restart your computer''; click ''Finish'' and restart Windows.

      If the PIXCI® imaging board was already installed, and ''Cancel'' was clicked when Windows started and announced the presence of a new ''Multimedia Video Controller'', then instruct Windows to load the appropriate driver. Click ''Start'', ''Control Panel'', ''Performance and Maintenance'', ''System'', ''Hardware'', ''Device Manager'', and under ''Other Devices'' or ''Imaging Devices'' double-click ''PCI MultiMedia Video Device'' or ''PIXCI(R) Video Capture Board'' (the latter appears if a PIXCI® imaging board driver was previously installed). Click ''Properties'', ''Driver'', ''Change Driver'' or ''Update Driver''. A ''Welcome'' window appears; select ''Install from a list or a specific location. (Advanced)'', click ''Next'', select ''Search for the best driver in these locations'', uncheck ''Search removable storage media'', check ''Include this location in the search'', enter path Drivers\WinXP, or Drivers\WinXP64 for Windows XP(x64), within the chosen installation directory typically C:\XCAP, and click ''Next'', ''Next''. A window reports ''The software that you are installing for ... has not passed compatibility testing''; click ''Continue Anyway''. A window reports ''The hardware you installed will not work until you restart your computer''; click ''Finish'' and restart Windows.

  6. Configure Graphics Display (S/VGA):

    1. A ''High Color (16 bit or 65536 Color)'', ''True Color (24 bit or 16777216 Color)'', or ''True Color (32 bit)'' setting for the graphics display (S/VGA) is required for proper display of images and overlay graphics. The ''True Color (24 bit or 16777216 Color)'' or ''True Color (32 bit)'' is suggested for higher quality, and quicker, display of images and overlay graphics. This may be checked and/or modified via Windows ''Start'', ''Settings'', ''Control Panel'', ''Display'', ''Settings''.

    2. Under ''Start Button'', ''Setting'', ''Control Panel'', ''Display'', ''Appearance'', ''Effects'', the ''Use the following transition effect for menus and toolbars:'', ''Show shadows under menus'', and ''Show window contents while dragging'' should all be disabled for maximum video performance.

  7. Reboot Windows.

  8. XCAP is now ready to run, by clicking the optional shortcut, or by clicking ''Start'', ''Programs'', ''XCAP Imaging'', and finally ''XCAP for Windows''.

 

3.8. Windows XP, XP(x64) or Server 2003 Esoterica

3.8.1. Windows XP, Server 2003 - Manual Installation

Use of EPIXXCW2.INF, above, provides automatic installation of EPIXXCW2.SYS in most circumstances. The following information allows manual installation, correcting problems, or integration with an OEM's procedures.

  1. The EPIXXCW2.SYS must be copied to the Windows SYSTEM32\DRIVERS directory, typically:
        C:\WINNT\SYSTEM32\DRIVERS
    

  2. Using the Registry Editor (REGEDIT) provided with Windows, create an entry such as:
        HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\EPIXXCW2
    
    This entry must contain:
        ErrorControl  =  0x00000001
        Group         =  "Extended base"
        Start         =  0x00000001
        Type          =  0x00000001
    
    and may, as described below, also contain:
        PIXCI         =  "-IM <memorysize>"
    
    Create an entry such as:
        HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SYSTEM\CurrentControlSet\Services\EventLog\System\EPIXXCW2
    
    This entry must contain:
        EventMessageFile = "%SystemRoot%\System32\IoLogMsg.dll"
        TypesSupported   = 0x00000007
    

  3. Shut down and restart Windows.

3.8.2. Windows XP, XP(x64), Server 2003 - Frame Buffer Memory Allocation

Under Windows XP, XP(x64), or Server 2003, frame buffer memory must be allocated during Windows' initialization.

The requested frame buffer memory size must be specified in the Registry entry described above, using an entry named ''PIXCI'', such as:

    PIXCI         =  "-IM <memorysize>"
replacing the ''<memorysize>'' with the desired memory size in kBytes. If no frame buffer memory size is specified, a default size of 32768 kBytes is used under Windows XP, Server 2003. A default size of 32768 kByte is used under Windows XP(x64). Windows must be rebooted for the new specification to take effect.

Optionally,

    "-MB <memory_partition_size>"
specifies that the requested
    "-IM <memorysize>"
is to be allocated in blocks or partitions of the stated size. Requesting memory partitioned into blocks may allow receiving more memory that would be available as a single block. However, (a) Each frame buffer must be completely contained within a partition, and (b) The maximum number of partitions is 256. Systems with very high resolution cameras using large frame buffers should choose the partition size carefully, so as to minimize the unusable memory remaining, smaller than a frame buffer, at the end of each partition.

For the PIXCI® CL3SD, which has on-board frame buffer memory, memory reserved by the -IM parameter is needed only for support of time stamping of captured frames, such as optionally used by Capture - Video to Frame Buffers. Currently, 64 bytes are needed for each frame buffer's status.

Windows XP, XP(x64), or Server 2003 limits the maximum amount of allocatable frame buffer memory, dependent upon what other devices are installed, the total computer memory size, and other factors. Under Windows XP or Server 2003 the maximum amount of memory that can be allocated by this method is typically limited to 512 MByte, but not more than half of the physical memory. Under Windows XP(x64), the typical amount of allocated memory has not yet been determined.

Windows may provide less frame buffer memory than was requested. If no memory could be allocated, the PIXCI® imaging board will not be available, stating ''Can't allocate frame buffer memory''. Otherwise, within XCAP, the number of available frame buffers can be checked under PIXCI®, PIXCI® Video Setup, Resolution. As the frame buffer memory is allocated once during Windows initialization; the contents of frame buffers are retained as XCAP is closed and restarted, but lost if Windows is restarted.

3.8.3. Windows XP, XP(x64), Server 2003 - Forceful Frame Buffer Memory Allocation

As described above, frame buffer memory allocated by EPIXXCW2.SYS for Windows XP and Server 2003, or EPIXXCW6.SYS for Windows XP(x64),