USER'S MANUAL

PIXCI® D24 for Dalsa Cameras
Revision 1

3 December 2001

For use with:
PIXCI® D24 Rev. 1



Copyright © 2001 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: 3-Dec-2001

Table of Contents

1. Installation

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

The PIXCI® D, D24, or D32 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 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 PCI bus slot.
  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. Note that some computers have 3.3 volt PCI bus slots (Silicon Graphics 320 and 540) into which the PIXCI board will not install since they are slotted differently than a 5 volt PCI 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 68 or 100 pin SCSI style subminiature D connector. Do not plug it into a SCSI card. Connect the other end of the cable into the labelled camera connectors.
  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,'' ''PIXCI Status,'' and ''PIXCI-Unit x Status'' (where x is the number of the board being used). The number reported in the ''Vertical Sync Count'' box 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. If that fails, refer to the ''In Case of Trouble'' chapter in this manual.

The size and the number of images that can be stored in DRAM on the motherboard is a function of the amount of DRAM that is not needed by the operating system. Windows 98 requires approximately 20 megabytes. XCAP reserves 4 MB of memory for image buffers. 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 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. Some PCI motherboards do not support burst mode on the PCI bus. Some PCI motherboards limit bursts to four 32 bit transfers. Some PCI motherboards must have their configuration EEPROM set to enable PCI bus burst mode. 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. ISA bus transfers will also 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. Compatible Motherboards - Partial List

The following configurations have been tested with video sources with 100 MB per second burst modes. Contact EPIX, Inc. or an EPIX, Inc. distributor for pricing on any of the motherboards listed below.

Motherboards with a 133 MHz CPU bus are recommended. For fast display updates, EPIX recommends motherboards with an Advanced Graphics Port (AGP) and an AGP VGA. An AGP VGA can provide at least twice the video update rate that a PCI VGA can provide. EPIX can provide complete, tested computer systems with a PIXCI and all required software installed as well as tested AGP VGA boards and motherboards. 





Manufacturer


Model        


Chipset     


Clock & CPU








Intel       


SE440BX      


Intel 440BX 


667 MHz Pentium II w/AGP








Intel       


NE440BX      


Intel 440BX 


350 MHz Pentium II w/AGP








Intel       


AL440LX      


Intel 440LX 


266 MHz Pentium II w/AGP








Intel       


PD440FX      


Intel 440FX 


233 MHz Pentium II








Intel       


TC430HX      


Intel 430HX 


200 MHz Pentium MMX








QDI         


Titanium II B 


Intel 430TX 


200 MHz Pentium MMX








QDI         


Titanium II B 


Intel 430TX 


233 MHz AMD K6

1.2. Non-Compatible Motherboards - Partial List

The following configuration(s) have been tested with the Hitachi KP-F110 camera and intermittently do not keep up with a transfer rate sufficient to prevent buffer overflow, which means lost data. There are many other PCI bus motherboards that will NOT operate successfully. Use one of the motherboards from the list above or purchase one from EPIX, Inc. 





Manufacturer


Model        


Chipset     


Clock & CPU








Intel       


VS440FX      


Intel 440FX 


200 MHz Pentium Pro

1.3. VGA Boards

2. Connectors

The PIXCI® D2X imaging board has a 68 pin connector which is accessible thru the bracket that mounts the board to the computer chassis. The cable for a DALSA Spyder camera provides connections to the 68 pin PIXCI® D2X connector and to the camera connectors. The 68 pin receptacle on the PIXCI® D2X is either a Honda PCS-XESFLD or an AMP 787082-7. The mating 68 pin male connector is a Honda PCS-XE68MA or an AMP 174731-5.

Signals on the 10 pin headers and the 68 pin connector are shown below, followed by the Spyder cable configurations.

2.1. PIXCI® D2X 10 Pin Header 1 Signal List

Three 10 pin headers are provided for connecting external and internal signals to the PIXCI D2X. The description for Header 1 follows. 




Signal  


IN/


Pin   


Pin   


IN/


Signal






Name    


OUT


Number


Number


OUT


Name








Ground  


 


 1    


 2    


 


+5 VDC (0.75 Amp max)








Not Used


I


 3    


 4    


I


Not Used








Frame-  


I


 5    


 6    


I


Frame+






FEN-    


 


      


      


 


FEN+








Strobe- 


O


 7    


 8    


O


Strobe+






STR-    


 


      


      


 


STR+








In/Out-


I/O


 9   


 10   


I/O


In/Out+

See the Trigger and Camera Integration Register Programming section of this manual in the Camera Control Register chapter for more information on these signals.

Header 1 is for signals external to the computer case or internal to the computer case. External signals can be connected with a cable to 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 D2X.

Header 1 is located in the top center of the PIXCI D2X.

Pin 1 is ground.

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

Pin 3 & 4, Not Used.

Pin 5, NFEN, is the negative differential frame enable input, which is also connected to pin 59 of the 68 pin connector.

Pin 6, PFEN, is the positive differential frame enable input, which is also connected to pin 25 of the 68 pin connector.

Pin 7, NSTR1, is a negative differential strobe output, which is NOT connected to the 68 pin connector.

Pin 8, PSTR1, is a positive differential strobe output, which is NOT connected to the 68 pin connector. The intended use for the NSTR1 and PSTR1 is to provide a strobe output which is driven from a separate driver from the PSTR and NSTR strobe signal on the 68 pin connector, since the 68 pin strobe signal may be used for data or other camera control purposes for specific cameras. The PSTR1 and NSTR1 signals are driven from the camera control state machine and the strobe signal is delayed by two state machines from the exposure signal. The polarity of the NSTR1 and PSTR1 can be controlled via bit 5 in the PRIN camera control register.

Pin 9, NIO, is a negative differential board-to-board signal which can be configured as an output, input, or both. It is NOT connected to the 68 pin connector.

Pin 10, PIO, is a positive differential board to board signal which can be configured as an output, input, or both. It is NOT connected to the 68 pin connector. 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).

Header 1 is for signals external to the computer case or internal to the computer case. External signals can be connected with a cable to 9 pin D-Subminiature connector thru a second slot with a bracket to mount the D-Subminiature connector.

2.2. PIXCI D2X 10 Pin Header 2 Signal List





Signal  


IN/


Pin   


Pin   


IN/


Signal






Name    


OUT


Number


Number


OUT


Name








Ground  


 


 1    


 2    


 


+5 VDC (0.75 Amp max)








Trig24-


In


 3    


 4    


In


Trig24+






Trigger 


 


      


      


 


Trigger








Reserved


 


 5    


 6    


 


Reserved








Reserved


 


 7    


 8    


 


Reserved








Reserved


 


 9    


 10   


 


Reserved

Pin 1 of HDR2 is in the upper left position.

Pin 1 is ground.

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

Pin 3, Trig24-, is a negative differential trigger input, which is NOT connected to the 68 pin connector.

Pin 4, Trig24+, is a positive differential trigger input, which is NOT connected to the 68 pin connector. HDR2 is used for the trigger input with the Spyder and Eclipse series cameras.

Pin 5 thru 10 are not used.

2.3. PIXCI D2X 10 Pin Header 3 Signal List





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

HDR3 is located in the lower left of the board near the 68 pin connector.

Pin 1 of HDR3 is in the upper left position.

Pin 1 is ground.

Pin 2 is +12 volts thru a 0.75 ampere thermal fuse.

Pin 3, OUT1, is a general purpose TTL output. The GP OUT1 is controlled by bit 17 in the IET register at offset 4. 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. The GP OUT2 is controlled by bit 18 in the IET register at offset 4. 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. This input is bit 23 of the IES register at offset 0. It is not buffered and should be used only to receive signals from other devices internal to the enclosure.

Pin 8 is ground.

Pin 9, IN2, is a general purpose TTL input. This input is bit 24 of the IES register at offset 0. It is not buffered and should be used only to receive signals from other devices internal to the enclosure.

Pin 10 is ground.


2.4. PIXCI® D2X 68 Pin Connector Signal List

The connector pinout is listed below with the reference location and pin number for the respective driver or receiver TTL input or output, and an in/out direction indicator for each signal. 





Drvr/Rcvr  


Signal  


IN/


Pin   


Pin   


IN/


Signal


Drvr/Rcvr






Pin Number 


Name    


OUT


Number


Number


OUT


Name  


Pin Number








           


Ground  


 I 


 1    


  35  


   


Ground








    F2-14  


MSBA+   


 I 


 2    


  36  


 I 


MSBA- 


 F2-15








    F2-10  


MSBA-1+ 


 I 


 3    


  37  


 I 


MSBA-1-


 F2-9








    F2-6   


MSBA-2+ 


 I 


 4    


  38  


 I 


MSBA-2-


 F2-7








    F2-2   


MSBA-3+ 


 I 


 5    


  39  


 I 


MSBA-3-


 F2-1








    H1-14  


MSBA-4+ 


 I 


 6    


  40  


 I 


MSBA-4-


 H1-15








    H1-10  


MSBA-5+ 


 I 


 7    


  41  


 I 


MSBA-5-


 H1-9








    H1-6   


MSBA-6+ 


 I 


 8    


  42  


 I 


MSBA-6-


 H1-7








    H1-2   


MSBA-7+ 


 I 


 9    


  43  


 I 


MSBA-7-


 H1-1








    H2-14  


MSBB+   


 I 


 10   


  44  


 I 


MSBB-  


 H2-15








    H2-10  


MSBB-1+ 


 I 


 11   


  45  


 I 


MSBB-1-


 H2-9








    B2-2   


TRIG+   


 O 


 12   


  46  


 O 


TRIG- 


 B2-3








    H2-6   


MSBB-2+ 


 I 


 13   


  47  


 I 


MSBB-2-


 H2-7








    H2-2   


MSBB-3+ 


 I 


 14   


  48  


 I 


MSBB-3-


 H2-1








    H3-14  


MSBB-4+ 


 I 


 15   


  49  


 I 


MSBB-4-


 H3-15








    H3-10  


MSBB-5+ 


 I 


 16   


  50  


 I 


MSBB-5-


 H3-9








    B2-14  


GAIN0+  


 O 


 17   


  51  


 O 


GAIN0- 


 B2-13








    B2-6   


GAIN1+  


 O 


 18   


  52  


 O 


GAIN1- 


 B2-5








    H3-6   


MSBB-6+ 


 I 


 19   


  53  


 I 


MSBB-6-


 H3-7








    H3-2   


MSBB-7+ 


 I 


 20   


  54  


 I 


MSBB-7-


 H3-1








    B1-6   


MSBB-8+ 


 O 


 21   


  55  


 O 


MSBB-8-


 B1-5








    F1-14  


SCOUT+  


 I 


 22   


  56  


 I 


SCOUT- 


 F1-15








     A2-6  


USER+   


 O 


 23   


  57  


 O 


USER-  


 A2-5








    A1-14  


FLD+    


 I 


 24   


  58  


 I 


FLD-   


 A1-15








    F1-10  


FENA+   


 I 


 25   


  59  


 I 


FENA-  


 F1-9








    F1-6   


LENA+   


 I 


 26   


  60  


 I 


LENA-  


 F1-7








    A1-2   


TRG+    


 I 


 27   


  61  


 I 


TRG-   


 A1-1








    B2-10  


SPEED+  


 O 


 28   


  62  


 O 


SPEED- 


 B2-11








    F1-2   


PCLK+   


 I 


 29   


  63  


 I 


PCLK-  


 F1-1








    A2-10  


EXP+    


 O 


 30   


  64  


 O 


EXP-   


 A2-11








    B1-2   


MCK+    


 O 


 31   


  65  


 O 


MCK-   


 B1-3








    C1-7   


PRIN+   


 O 


 32   


  66  


 O 


PRIN-  


 C1-7








    B1-14  


BIN+    


 O 


 33   


  67  


 O 


BIN-   


 B1-13








           


GND     


   


 34   


  68  


   


GND

MCK is an option for generating a pixel clock to the camera. MCK is an option for most Dalsa cameras and is used when operating the camera at a pixel clock other than the standard clock frequency or for multiple cameras that will be pixel clock locked. An optional, programmable pixel clock generator must be ordered for MCK.

USER is an option that should be considered when ordering the board if the camera does not have an internal pixel clock or multiple cameras are to be pixel clock locked.




2.5. PIXCI® D2X 68 Pin Connector to Dalsa SP-11-xxx30 Line Scan Camera Signal List





Interface


Signal


Camera   


Interface






68 Pin   


Name  


36 Pin   


Signal






MALE     


      


CONNECTOR


Type








 10


D7     


 9


LVDS Input








 44


D7B    


27


LVDS Input








 11


D6     


10


LVDS Input








 45


D6B    


28


LVDS Input








 13


D5     


11


LVDS Input








 47


D5B    


29


LVDS Input








 14


D4     


12


LVDS Input








 48


D4B    


30


LVDS Input








 15


D3     


13


LVDS Input








 49


D3B    


31


LVDS Input








 16


D2     


14


LVDS Input








 50


D2B    


32


LVDS Input








 17


GAIN0  


 2


LVDS Output








 51


GAIN0B 


20


LVDS Output








 18


GAIN1  


 4


LVDS Output








 52


GAIN1B 


22


LVDS Output








 19


D1     


15


LVDS Input








 53


D1B    


33


LVDS Input








 20


D0     


16


LVDS Input








 54


D0B    


34


LVDS Input








 26


LVAL   


18


LVDS Input








 60


LVALB  


36


LVDS Input








 28


SPEED  


 1


LVDS Output








 62


SPEEDB 


19


LVDS Output








 29


STROBE 


17


LVDS Input








 63


STROBEB


35


LVDS Input








 30


EXSYNC 


 7


LVDS Output








 64


EXSYNCB


25


LVDS Output








 31


MCLK   


 5


LVDS Output








 65


MCLKB  


23


LVDS Output








 32


PRIN   


 6


LVDS Output








 66


PRINB  


24


LVDS Output








 33


BIN    


 8


LVDS Output








 67


BINB   


26


LVDS Output








 68


SHIELD 


SHELL


GND










PIXCI D2X 68 Pin to Dalsa Spyder Signal List

3. Software Installation

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

While XCAP is easy to install, like most manufacturers of PC software, we recommend as a precaution that a hard disk backup be performed before installing XCAP.

3.1. For Windows 95 - Windows 98 - Windows 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.
    2. If XCAP is provided on a compact disk (CD):
      1. If your PC 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.
    3. If XCAP is provided via the internet:
      1. Download: 
        ftp.epixinc.com/software/xcap_v21/XCAPWI.EXE
        from the EPIX, Inc. ftp site.
      2. Execute the downloaded program, from a command prompt, or via the Windows ''Start'', ''Run'': 
            > XCAPWI.EXE
      3. Follow the installation program's directions, such as to select an installation directory.
      4. Delete the downloaded .EXE file from your PC'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. One file, PCITIPS.TXT, contains the PC Configuration Tips, which provides 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 and XCAP-Std):
    1. XCAP-Plus and XCAP-Std, 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 printer port 1, 2, or 3. 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 which 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.

      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 or XCAP-Std 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\HLDINST -install
    3. Or, in command prompt mode, switch to the chosen installation directory: 
          > CHDIR C:\XCAP
      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/ME, the Windows' Device Manager must be used for initial installation of the PIXCI® driver.

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

      The first time Windows 95 starts after installation of the PIXCI® imaging board, a pop-up window titled ''New Hardware Found'' with messages ''PCI Multimedia Device'' and ''Select which driver you want to install for your new hardware'' will appear. Select the ''Driver from disk provided by hardware manufacturer'' option and click ''OK''. A pop-up window with the message ''Insert the manufacturer's installation disk ...'' and ''Copy manufacturer's files from ...'' will appear. Click ''Browse'', select path and file DRIVERS\WIN95\EPIXXCW5.INF (EPIXXC32.INF for version 2.0 and earlier) within the chosen installation directory, such as C:\XCAP\DRIVERS\WIN95\EPIXXCW5.INF, and click ''OK'' and ''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 by. Next a pop-up window with the message ''The wizard searches for new driver for PCI Multimedia Video Device'' will appear. Click ''Next''. Select ''Search for the best driver for your device''. Click ''Next''. A pop-up window with the message ''Windows will search for new driver ...'' and ''Specify Location'' will appear. Enter path DRIVERS\WIN95 within the chosen installation directory, such as C:\XCAP\DRIVERS\WIN95, and click ''Next''. A pop-up window will report that a driver was found, namely C:\XCAP\DRIVERS\WIN95\EPIXXCW5.INF (EPIXXC32.INF for version 2.0 and earlier). 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 Video Device'' will flash by. Next a pop-up window with the message ''Windows has found the following new hardware:'' will appear. Select ''Specify the location of the driver (Advanced)''. Click ''Next''. Select ''Search for the best driver for your device''. Check the box for: ''Specify a location''. Enter path DRIVERS\WINME within the chosen installation directory, such as C:\XCAP\DRIVERS\WINME, and click ''Next''. A pop-up window will report that a driver was found, namely C:\XCAP\DRIVERS\WINME\EPIXXCW5.INF (EPIXXC32.INF for version 2.0 and earlier). 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 ''Other Devices''. Select ''PCI MultiMedia Video Device'' (which appears if a PIXCI® imaging board driver was never installed), or ''PIXCI(R) Video Capture Board'' (which appears if a PIXCI® imaging board driver was previously installed). Click ''Driver'', ''Change Driver'', and ''Other''. Select ''PCI MultiMedia Video Device'' or ''PIXCI(R) Video Capture Board''. Click ''Have Disk'', select DRIVERS\WIN95 within the chosen installation directory, such as C:\XCAP\DRIVERS\WIN95, 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 ''Other Devices''. Select ''PCI MultiMedia Video Device'' (which appears if a PIXCI® imaging board driver was never installed), or ''PIXCI(R) Video Capture Board'' (which appears if a PIXCI® imaging board driver was previously installed). Click on the ''Properties'' button. Click on the ''Driver'' Tab, and the click on ''Change Driver'', or ''Update Driver''. Next a pop-up window with the message ''This wizard searches for updated drivers for:'' followed by ''PCI MultiMedia Video Device'' (which appears if a PIXCI® imaging board driver was never installed), or ''PIXCI(R) Video Capture Board'' (which appears if a PIXCI® imaging board driver was previously installed). Select ''Specify the location of the driver (Advanced)''. Click ''Next''. Select ''Search for the best driver for your device''. Check the box for: ''Specify a location''. Enter path DRIVERS\WINME within the chosen installation directory, such as C:\XCAP\DRIVERS\WINME, and click ''Next''. A pop-up window will report that a driver was found, namely C:\XCAP\DRIVERS\WINME\EPIXXCW5.INF (EPIXXC32.INF for version 2.0 and earlier). Click ''Next'' and ''Finish''.

      Note that the ''quick reboot'' offered by (some versions of the) Device Manager does not properly install the PIXCI® board's driver; a full shutdown and reboot is required. The shutdown and reboot can be delayed until after the installation is completed.

  6. Set Frame Buffer Memory Size (optional):
    1. By default, 4 megabytes of frame buffer memory is allocated.
    2. Under Windows 95/98/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/ME limits the maximum amount of allocatable frame buffer memory, dependent upon what other devices are installed, the total PC memory size, and other factors.

      Less than the requested amount of frame buffer memory may be provided by Windows. 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 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 display adapter (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 dynamic 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, clicking ''Start'', ''Programs'', ''XCAP Imaging'', and finally ''XCAP for Windows''.

3.2. Windows 95 - Windows 98 - Windows ME - Esoterica

3.2.1. Windows 95/98/ME - Manual Installation

Use of EPIXXCW5.INF (EPIXXC32.VXD for version 2.0 and earlier), above, provides automatic installation of EPIXXCW5.VXD (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 (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: 
    (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 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® 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® CL3SD: 
    (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® CL1: 
    (Win 95)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_D100\BUS_**&DEV_**&FUNC_**
(Win 98)    HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Enum\PCI\VEN_165A&DEV_D100&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_**
    where the **'s may be any digits (assigned and created by Windows after detection of the PIXCI® imaging board). 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 - Forcible Frame Buffer Memory Allocation

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

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

  1. In C:\CONFIG.SYS[2], add a line: 
        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 (EPIXXC32.VXD for version 2.0 and earlier) doesn't reserve and waste additional frame buffer memory.
  3. Reboot Windows.

This technique allows most of the PC's memory to be reserved as frame buffer memory (e.g. typically all but 8 or 16 megabytes, 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 XCAP will not run, stating ''Can't allocate frame buffer memory''.

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

3.2.3. Windows ME - Forcible 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 PC 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 pages, expressed in hexadecimal: 
        [386Enh]
    MaxPhysPage=4000    ;; 64 Mbytes 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 16384
    In practice, all three fields are on the same line. Be certain 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 legal 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 PC with 256 megabyte 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, above, provides automatic installation of the printer port authorization key's driver, needed under Windows 95/98/ME, for XCAP-Plus and XCAP-Std (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 in the same directory as XCAP, typically: 
        C:\XCAP
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/ME environment.

3.3. For Windows NT

XCAP requires Windows NT Version 4 with Service Pack 3 or later. You must be logged on an 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.
    2. If XCAP is provided on a compact disk (CD):
      1. If your PC 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.
    3. If XCAP is provided via the internet:
      1. Download: 
        ftp.epixinc.com/software/xcap_v21/XCAPWI.EXE
        from the EPIX, Inc. ftp site.
      2. Execute the downloaded program, from a command prompt, or via the Windows ''Start'', ''Run'': 
            > XCAPWI.EXE
      3. Follow the installation program's directions, such as to select an installation directory.
      4. Delete the downloaded .EXE file from your PC'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. One file, PCITIPS.TXT, contains the PC Configuration Tips, which provides 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.[3]
    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 and XCAP-Std):
    1. XCAP-Plus and XCAP-Std, 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 printer port 1, 2, or 3. 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 which 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.

      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 or XCAP-Std 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\HLDINST -install
    3. Or, in command prompt mode, switch to the chosen installation directory: 
          > CHDIR C:\XCAP
      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 PC 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 (EPIXXCNT.INF for version 2.0 and earlier). From the menu bar, select ''File'' and ''Install''.
  6. Configure 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 display adapter (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, 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 (EPIXXCNT.INF for version 2.0 and earlier), above, provides automatic installation of EPIXXCWT.SYS (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 (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 4 megabytes is used. Windows must be rebooted for the new specification to take effect.

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

Less than the requested amount of frame buffer memory may be provided by Windows. If no memory could be allocated, XCAP will not run, 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 - Forcible Frame Buffer Memory Allocation

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

A larger frame buffer memory can be obtained by limiting the amount of memory recognized by Windows NT, and then instructing EPIXXCWT.SYS (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 in Mbytes) and changing the prompt name, such as 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 8192
    In practice, all three fields are on the same line. Be certain 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 legal 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, using the newly added boot selection.

For example, for a PC with 1 gigabyte 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, above, provides automatic installation of the printer port authorization key's driver, needed under Windows NT, for XCAP-Plus and XCAP-Std (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 in the same directory as XCAP, typically: 
        C:\XCAP
  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.
    2. If XCAP is provided on a compact disk (CD):
      1. If your PC 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.
    3. If XCAP is provided via the internet:
      1. Download: 
        ftp.epixinc.com/software/xcap_v21/XCAPWI.EXE
        from the EPIX, Inc. ftp site.
      2. Execute the downloaded program, from a command prompt, or via the Windows ''Start'', ''Run'': 
            > XCAPWI.EXE
      3. Follow the installation program's directions, such as to select an installation directory.
      4. Delete the downloaded .EXE file from your PC'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. One file, PCITIPS.TXT, contains the PC Configuration Tips, which provides 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 and XCAP-Std):
    1. XCAP-Plus and XCAP-Std, 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 printer port 1, 2, or 3. 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 which 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.

      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 or XCAP-Std 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\HLDINST -install
    3. Or, in command prompt mode, switch to the chosen installation directory: 
          > CHDIR C:\XCAP
      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 yet installed, the first time Windows starts after installation 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 by. Next a pop-up window with the message ''Welcome to the Found New Hardware Wizard'' will appear. Click ''Next''. Select ''Search for the best driver for your device''. Click ''Next''. Check the box for: ''Specify a location''. Enter path DRIVERS\WIN2K within the chosen installation directory, such as C:\XCAP\DRIVERS\WIN2K, and click ''Next''. A pop-up window will report that a driver was found, namely C:\XCAP\DRIVERS\WIN2K\EPIXXCW2.INF. Click ''Next''. A pop-up window will report that a ''Digital Signature was not found''. Click ''Yes''. A pop-up window with the message ''Completing the Found New Hardware Wizard'' will state that ''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 reboot Windows.

      If the PIXCI® imaging board was already installed under Windows 2000, 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 ''Other Devices'' or ''Imaging Devices''. Select ''PCI MultiMedia Video Device'' (which appears if a PIXCI® imaging board driver was never installed), or ''PIXCI(R) Video Capture Board'' (which appears if a PIXCI® imaging board driver was previously installed). Double-click on the entry to bring up the ''Properties'' window. Click the ''Driver'' tab, and then click ''Change Driver'', or ''Update Driver''. A pop-up ''Welcome'' window will appear, click ''Next''. A pop-up window with the messages ''This wizard searches for updated drivers for:'' and ''PCI MultiMedia Video Device'' or ''PIXCI(R) Video Capture Board'' will appear. Select ''Search for a suitable driver for my device (recommended)''. Click ''Next''. Check the box for: ''Specify a location''. Enter path DRIVERS\WIN2K within the chosen installation directory, such as C:\XCAP\DRIVERS\WIN2K, and click ''Next''. A pop-up window will report that a driver was found, namely C:\XCAP\DRIVERS\WIN2K\EPIXXCW2.INF. Click ''Next''. A pop-up window will appear stating that a ''Digital Signature was not found''. Click ''Yes''. A pop-up window with the message ''Completing the Found New Hardware Wizard'' will appear and may state that ''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 reboot Windows.

  6. Configure 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 display adapter (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, 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 (EPIXXCNT.INF for version 2.0 and earlier), above, provides automatic installation of EPIXXCW2.SYS (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 (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/XP - Frame Buffer Memory Allocation

Under Windows 2000/XP, 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 4 megabytes is used. Windows must be rebooted for the new specification to take effect.

Windows 2000/XP limits the maximum amount of allocatable frame buffer memory, dependent upon what other devices are installed, the total PC memory size, and other factors.

Less than the requested amount of frame buffer memory may be provided by Windows. If no memory could be allocated, XCAP will not run, 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.

3.6.3. Windows 2000/XP - Forcible Frame Buffer Memory Allocation

As described above, frame buffer memory allocated by EPIXXCW2.SYS during Windows startup may be limited to a small percentage of total PC memory.

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

  1. Edit C:\BOOT.INI, restricting Windows 2000/XP to use no more than a set amount of memory: by copying an existing configuration line, adding /MAXMEM=XX (where XX is in Mbytes) and changing the prompt name, such as 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.

  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 8192
    In practice, all three fields are on the same line. Be certain 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 legal 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, using the newly added boot selection.

For example, for a PC with 1 gigabyte 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.

3.6.4. Windows 2000/XP - Authorization Key - Manual Installation

Use of HLDINST.EXE, above, provides automatic installation of the printer port authorization key's driver, needed under Windows 2000/XP, for XCAP-Plus and XCAP-Std (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.

4. Getting Started

This chapter will guide the user through the initial steps common to most applications using the PIXCI imaging board: capturing, viewing, examining, and saving images. This guide isn't intended to discuss every feature of every window in XCAP, just the most important features to ''get up and running''.

By following the previous instructions, at this point:

  1. The PIXCI imaging board has been installed.
  2. The camera has been connected to the PIXCI imaging board.
  3. The XCAP software has been installed.
  4. For XCAP-Plus or XCAP-Std, but not XCAP-Lite, the authorization key has been installed on the printer port.
  5. The PIXCI driver for Windows 95/98 or Windows NT, has been installed.
  6. The S/VGA has been set for 16 bits (minimum required), or 24 or 32 bits (preferred), per pixel.
  7. The PC has been rebooted (Ctrl+Alt+Del) so that the installed driver and the modified S/VGA settings (if any) have taken effect.

The following instructions are intended to be used while operating the PC; pictures of the S/VGA are intentionally not shown, in favor of focusing the reader's attention on the real S/VGA screen.

4.1. Start XCAP

Start XCAP by clicking: 

    Start (on the Windows Taskbar)
    XCAP Imaging
and then clicking: 
    XCAP for Windows

The XCAP Main Window now appears.

4.2. Open PIXCI Imaging Board

In the XCAP Main Window, click: 

    PIXCI
    PIXCI Open/Close
A pop-up window appears.

Clicking: 

    Open
opens the PIXCI imaging board for use, removes the Open/Close pop-up window, creates a PIXCI Image Viewer window showing the first PIXCI frame buffer, and creates a Shortcuts Toolbar for accessing the most commonly needed features.

The following windows are now active:

  1. The Main Window, which has options for reconfiguring the PIXCI imaging board, and features independent of the PIXCI imaging board, such as loading images into image buffers unrelated to video capture hardware.
  2. The PIXCI® Image Viewer window, from which the PIXCI® frame buffers are captured, viewed, examined, processed, measured, and saved, with a status bar below the image where cursor coordinates and other information is displayed.
  3. The PIXCI® Shortcut Toolbar, with shortcuts for the most commonly needed features relating to the PIXCI® imaging board and its frame buffers.

If XCAP has already been installed, it may have been configured with one or more variations, such as, (a) Eliminate the Main Window, automatically opening and displaying the PIXCI® Image Viewer, (b) Configure the Shortcuts and/or Adjust features to be attached to the The PIXCI® Image Viewer window, rather than detached into their own windows, (c) Select whether the Shortcuts and/or Adjust features appear automatically, or only when 

    Capture
    Adjustments
or 
    Capture
    Shortcuts
are clicked, or (d) Remove the status bar, increasing the screen area available for image display. These variations allow custom configuration of XCAP, but don't affect the functionality of the Shortcuts or Adjustments features.

4.3. Capturing Images

Once the PIXCI® imaging board is opened for use, images may be captured from the PIXCI® Image Viewer, clicking: 

    Capture
    Snap
or 
    Capture
    Live
The Snap captures a single image into the current frame buffer, while Live continuously captures images into the current frame buffer, continuously updating the image shown on the S/VGA.

The Live mode may be used to adjust the camera's focus, aperture, and position. The Live mode may be halted by clicking: 

    Capture
    UnLive
A Live followed immediately by Unlive has the same effect as Snap.

If the current video resolution and frame buffer memory size allows more than one frame buffer, clicking: 

    Capture
    Adjustments
provides the: 
    Current Frame Buffer:   0
or sometimes shortened to: 
    Current Buffer:   0
which may be incremented or decremented at any time, whether in Live or UnLive mode. The window reached by clicking: 
    Capture
    Adjustments
has convenient buttons which duplicate the Snap, Live, and UnLive features.

As three of the most commonly used operations, the Snap, Live, and UnLive are also available in the Shortcuts Toolbar, in the top row, at the fifth and sixth from the left. The Shortcuts also allow changing the current frame buffer; in the top row, the four icons at the left switch to the first frame buffer, the next frame buffer (e.g. current buffer +1), the previous frame buffer (e.g. current buffer -1), and the last frame buffer, respectively.

4.4. Examining Images

4.4.1. Altering How the Image is Displayed

The PIXCI Image Viewer can be moved and resized, using standard Windows techniques (drag the window's title bar, drag the window's corner, etc). By default, the captured image is displayed with resizing, so that the entire image fits within the Image Viewer.

For many engineering applications, examination of individual pixel values is critically important. Resizing the image may ''hide'' defective pixels; resizing an image with interlace jitter may turn odd/even line striping into bars of striping.

To view the exact pixels, from the PIXCI® Image Viewer, click: 

    View
    Display
    Resize: None (1 to 1)
Each image pixel is now displayed as exactly one S/VGA pixel. Of course, depending upon the image resolution, S/VGA re