BOA Spot

Quick Start Guide

BOA Spot Quick Start

Version 20160126

Notice
BOA Spot Quick Start Guide
Document Number 405-00056-00
Copyright 2016 Teledyne DALSA Incorporated.
All rights reserved.
All copyrights in this manual, and the hardware and software described in it, are the
exclusive property of Teledyne DALSA Incorporated and its licensors.
Claim of copyright does not imply waiver of Teledyne DALSA Incorporated or its licensors
other rights in the work. See the following Notice of Proprietary Rights.

NOTICE OF PROPRIETARY RIGHTS

This manual and the related hardware and software are confidential trade secrets and the
property of Teledyne DALSA Incorporated and its licensors. Use, examination,
reproduction, copying, transfer and/or disclosure to others of all or any part of this manual
and the related documentation are prohibited except with the express written consent of
Teledyne DALSA Incorporated.
The information in this document is subject to change without notice. Teledyne DALSA
Incorporated makes no representations or warranties with respect to the contents of this
manual and specifically disclaims any implied warranties of merchantability or fitness for a
particular purpose. Teledyne DALSA Incorporated assumes no responsibility for errors or
omissions in this document.

Teledyne DALSA logo is a trademark of Teledyne DALSA Incorporated. All other

trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Teledyne DALSA Industrial Products

Information: info.ipd@teledynedalsa.com
Support: support.ipd@teledynedalsa.com
Web: http://www.teledynedalsa.com/visionsystems
700 Technology Park Drive
Billerica, MA, USA 01821
Tel 1.978.670.2002 Fax 1.978.670.2010
BOA Spot Quick Start

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Certifications
Declaration of Conformity
Manufacturer

Teledyne DALSA Industrial Products Incorporated

700 Technology Park Drive
Billerica MA 01867
USA

CE

We declare that this product has been tested to comply with the
EC Directive for a class A digital device in accordance with
EN55022/CISPR22

FCC

We declare that this product has been tested and found to

comply with the limits for a class A digital device, pursuant to
Part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to provide
reasonable protection against harmful interference in a
residential installation.
This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency
energy and may cause harmful interference to radio
communication.

Other Certifications
IP67

This product meets the requirements for industrial applications

that require IP67 wash down protection - requires fitted sealing
lens cover and sealing plugs on unused connectors

CFR 21 Part 11

This product provides the tools needed for users to implement

an auditing program that could be in compliance with CFR 21
Part 11. These tools include:
System or software backup and restore
System software security (password login and access limits)
Protection of system backup files from modification.
Record of actions by users with time stamp information
Time stamp information on data output.

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Handling Precautions
Care should always be exercised when handling and operating your BOA Spot Vision
System. Even though the system is encased within a rugged, industrial enclosure,
incorrect use or handling can result in damage to your investment. To prevent this, we
recommend follow these precautions:

Do not look directly into the LED ring light during operation! The light is extremely
bright and may cause pain or damage your vision.

Avoid hot-plugging cables and devices. Always shut the system down and remove
power before connecting or disconnecting anything to it.

Do not use in a Free-standing operation. Mount the system properly to prevent it

from falling accidentally. Mounting holes are provided on each side of the system.

Always use the BOA Spot system within its recommended operating conditions.
Refer to the complete specifications on page 17.

Do not install BOA Spot in a location that will expose it to excessive heat, humidity,
vibration, impact, corrosive substances, flammable substances, static electricity or
Electro Static Discharge (ESD).

Never expose the internal electronics by opening the enclosure.

Do not attempt to modify the BOA Spot or open the case. This unit has no fieldreplaceable components (beyond replacing the Lens or Ring-light). Tampering with
the unit will void the product warranty.

Warranty
Teledyne DALSA warrants the BOA Spot Vision System against defects in materials and
workmanship for a period of twenty four (24) months from the date of delivery. Teledyne
DALSA and its representatives expressly disclaim any and all other warranties.
Your sole remedy shall be repair or replacement of the BOA Spot Vision System product
and associated optional components, provided that the defective product is returned
within the warranty period.
If you need to return the BOA Spot Vision System, you must contact the Teledyne
DALSA representative who sold you the product. Do not return your product to Teledyne
DALSA without prior authorization.
Teledyne DALSA assumes no liability for damages resulting from the use of this manual.

BOA Spot Quick Start

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Table Of Contents
Introduction

Installation

Specifications

Software

Troubleshooting

BOA Spot Quick Start

Overview & Support

............................

Components

............................

Lens, Cover & Light Options

............................

Connections

............................

Cable Pinouts

............................

10

Cable Configurations

............................

11

Ethernet and I/O Setup

............................

12

Ethernet Only Setup

............................

13

Camera Mounting Options

............................

14

Optional LED Ring Light

............................

14

Dimensional Drawings

............................

15

General Specifications

............................

17

Input Specifications

............................

18

Output Specifications

............................

19

Panel Link Specification

...

20

Wiring Diagrams

..

21

Serial Port Connection

..

22

Configure the PC

............................

23

Configure BOA Spot

..

26

iDiscover Utility

............................

27

BOA Spot Web Server

............................

28

Application Window

..

29

Programming & Examples

............................

30

Input & Output Setup

............................

33

Application Setup

............................

35

Firmware Updating

36

Emulator Software

37

Problems with BOA Spot

............................

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Introduction
BOA Spot Overview
BOA Spot is a fully integrated vision system in a compact smart camera format that
has been specifically designed for industrial use. Packaged complete with application
software embedded, BOA Spot provides an easy-to-deploy automated inspection
system for the factory floor.
BOA Spot vision systems are configured and monitored remotely using an Ethernet
connection to a PC or factory network. An inspection can be quickly set up using a web
browser portal into the resident inspection software.
The software interface is fully equipped with a suite of vision tools and capabilities that
satisfy a range of inspection needs. BOA Spot is available as two different models, with
a basic or standard tool set (SL version) and an expanded tool set (EL version).
BOA Spot-SL Standard Level - Position, Edge, and Feature tools.
BOA Spot-EL Expanded Level - Position, Edge, Feature, and Measurement tools.
BOA Spot vision systems are rugged devices that can be integrated into existing
production lines, machinery or moving equipment. They are supported by standard
industrial M12 cordsets to further simplify and reduce implementation costs.
Rated for IP67 deployment when fitted with the M12 lens and lens cover, BOA Spot
systems can be mounted in wash down factory environments without the need for
additional protective enclosures.
Other BOA Spot Options:
M12 Lens with integrated cover is rated for IP67, allows adjusting focus without
removing the cover. Optional integrated LED ring-light. No filter options.
C-Mount Lens. Optional lens cover is rated for IP67. Cover must be removed to
adjust focus. No ring-light option. Can be used with optional filters.

Product Support
In addition to this Quick Start Guide, the following information is available:
1. On-line help: Fingertip help is available on every screen (panel) of the BOA Spot
Software User Interface
2. Additional manuals and documentation are included on the CD that ships with the
product.
3. Factory support is available by email at: support.ipd@teledynedalsa.com
4. Call, fax or email your local representative who sold you the product

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BOA Spot Components

BOA Spot vision systems are shipped with the components listed below. Take a few
moments to verify that everything has arrived in good condition. If your product has
been visibly damaged during shipment or is missing parts, please contact your Teledyne
DALSA representative immediately.
Standard components (ship with every BOA Spot Vision System):
Component

Description

BOA Spot System

BVS-SP-0640M-LL-TFF-C
BVS-SP-1280M-LL-TFF-C

BOA Spot Fully integrated vision system with 640x480 or 1280x960

monochrome sensor, lens, processing engine, embedded software,
communications and light control.
(LL= feature level: SL or EL); (T = lens type: M= M12, C=C Mount);
(FF* = focal length in mm: 06, 08, 16, 25); (C= Ring-Light Color:
R=red, B=blue, W=white, X=none*)

Mounting Screw Kit

M4 screws for mounting the BOA Spot (Qty 4)

* Lens and ring-light are only specified for the M12 version, not available with C Mount lens.

Optional components (sold separately):

Component

Description

Cables
A-BVS-E8S-X
A-BVS2-IO12S-X

M12-RJ45 Ethernet cordset (X= length: 5=5m, 10=10m)

M12 single-ended IO cordset (X= length: 5=5m, 10=10m)

BVS-PL-101
A-BVS-PL101S-X

Panel Link breakout module. Provides convenient panel access to

BOA Spot I/O and serial port
M12 IO cordset to PL-101 (X= length: 5=5m, 10=10m)

BVS-PL-100

Panel Link breakout module for Passive Power on Ethernet

A-BVS-SP-LCG-45

Lens Cover for C Mount lens option. Required for IP67 compliance.
(45 mm internal lens length)

A-BVS-M12-P

M12 plug for IP67 compliance

A-BVS-SP-M12-LKIT

M12 lens kit (includes 8, 12, 16 & 25mm lenses)

Lights

Various Lighting options available from Teledyne DALSA

Filters

Various C-Mount filters available from Teledyne DALSA

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Lens, Cover, and Light Options

M12 Lens
The BOA Spot vision system can be ordered with an M12 lens in several focal lengths
(6, 8, 16, 25 mm). The M12 option comes with a special IP67 cover, that allows you to
change focus without removing the cover.
The M12 Lens and cover also supports an optional LED ring-light that is mounted inside
the cover. The ring-light is available in White, Red, or Blue.

M12 Lens, Cover, and LED ring

M12 cover rotates to adjust focus

C-Mount Lens
The BOA Spot vision system can be ordered with
support for a C-Mount lens. Lenses are sold
separately.
There is an optional IP67 Lens cover that may be
ordered separately.
There is no internal light option with the C-Mount
lens.
Optional filters can be ordered separately for use
with the C-Mount lens.
C-Mount Lens
shown with Optional Cover
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Installation
Connecting the BOA Spot Vision System
This section details how to connect the BOA Spot vision system with its associated
components and factory environment.
Camera Connectors and Indicators

LAN 8 Pin

I/O PWR 12 Pin

Designator

Definitions

LAN

10/100 BaseT Ethernet connection. Provides the primary

interface for configuring the camera, developing the application
and monitoring results.
Note: The BOA Spot can be powered from the Ethernet cable
directly (Passive Power over Ethernet or PPoE).

I/O PWR

Provides access to the camera I/O 3 IN, 3 OUT, RS-232. Also

provides PWR input (12-30V). Note: The power is common to
both connectors.

LED 1

Blue Solid = Camera booted, not configured (no Solution file)

Green Solid = Solution loaded, ready to run
Green blink = Solution loaded & running, acquisition in process
Red = Camera Fault

LED 2

Blue blink = Booting (should stop after 20 seconds)

Green = Inspection Pass (runtime decision result)
Blue = Inspection Recycle (runtime decision result)
Red = Inspection Fail (runtime decision result)

LED LAN

Blue = Warm reset or reboot

Red/Green/Yellow = Network activity

NOTE: The BOA Spot does not support the IEEE 802.3af standard Power over Ethernet
(PoE) and should not be directly connected to a PoE supported router.
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Cable Pinouts
The BOA Spot vision system is compatible with M12 factory cordsets as show below:
LAN Connector Pinout
M12

Name

RJ45

PWR *

NC

GND *

TDX-

RDX+

TDX+

NC

RDX-

NOTE: the BOA Spot LAN

connection is different than
specified in the ProfiNet
interconnection technology guide.

A-BVS-E8S-X

* For Passive Power over Ethernet

I/O-PWR Connector Pinout

M12

Name

PWR

Brown

GND

Blue

OUT2

White

OUT CMN

Green

IN0 / TRIG

Pink

IN2

Yellow

IN CMN

Black

RS232 TX

Gray

RS 232 RX

Red

10

OUT 1

Purple

11

OUT 0

Gray/Pink

12

IN 1

Red/Blue

BOA Spot Quick Start

Wire

A-BVS2-IO12S-X

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Cable Configurations
The BOA Spot vision system offers flexible cabling to suit a number of application
configurations:
1.

For typical applications, both the Ethernet and I/O-PWR cables are connected to
provide flexibility between the camera and the control environment. In this
configuration, power is usually supplied by the I/O-PWR cable. Note: Power is
common to both BOA Spot connectors. Either or both cables can supply power
provided they come from the same power source. Do not connect different power
sources to the BOA Spot connectors. Note: The PL-101 is for this configuration.

2.

For single cable applications that do not require I/O, the Ethernet cable can be used
to supply power (referred to as Passive Power over Ethernet or PPoE) and
communications between the camera and the control environment. Power is
supplied by connecting a DC voltage source between 12-30V to conductors (PWR
and GND) on the Ethernet RJ45 connector. In this configuration, the camera I/O is
unavailable. Note: The PL-100 module supplies Passive Power on the Ethernet
connection.

3.

For single cable applications that do not require an Ethernet connection at runtime,
the I/O-PWR cable provides limited communications and power between the
camera and the control environment. Note: The PL-101 is for this configuration. An
Ethernet connection is still required for setup.

Panel Link Modules

The PL-101 and PL-100 are optional modules that provide a safe and convenient way
to interface with BOA Spot. The PL-101 provides an isolation barrier between the
factory and the camera I/O (differential isolation) and allows convenient panel wiring.
The PL-100 provides convenient Passive Power on the Ethernet connector.

RJ45

PL-101

PL-100

A-BVS2-PL-101

A-BVS-PL-100

RJ45

NOTE: The BOA Spot does not support the IEEE 802.3af standard Power over Ethernet
(PoE) and should not be directly connected to a PoE supported router.
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Ethernet and I/O Setup

1.

Connect the M12-8 male end of the Ethernet cordset (A-BVS-E8S-X) to the M12-8
female connector labeled LAN on the camera.

2.

Connect the RJ45 end of the Ethernet cordset to the RJ45 on the client PC, PLC
or factory LAN (PC is only required for setup)

3.

Connect camera PWR, GND, trigger and I/O from the control panel to the breakout
screw terminals on the PL-101.

4.

Connect one end of the M12-12 male IO-PWR cordset (A-BVS2-IO12S-X) to the
M12-12 female connector on the camera labeled IO/PWR. Connect the other end
of the cable to the M12-12 female connector on the PL-101.

BOA Spot

A-BVS-E8S-X

A-BVS2-IO12S-X

Setup client PC
A-BVS-PL-101

Power
Inputs
Outputs

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Ethernet Only Setup

1.

Connect the M12-8 male end of the Ethernet cordset (A-BVS-E8S-X) to the M12-8
female connector labeled LAN on the camera.

2.

Connect the RJ45 end of the Ethernet cordset to the RJ45 connector labeled
CAM LAN on the Panel Link breakout module (A-BVS-PL-100)

3.

Connect the RJ45 labeled LAN on the breakout module to the controlling PC,
PLC or the factory LAN

4.

Connect camera PWR and GND to the breakout screw terminals labeled PWR.
NOTE: The trigger button on the PL-100 does not function in this configuration.

BOA Spot
A-BVS2-E8S-X

A-BVS-PL-100

Power

Setup client PC

Optionally, the IO-PWR cordset (A-BVS2-IO12S-X) can be connected to the PL-100,

to access 2 of the 3 inputs and 2 of the 3 outputs. The trigger button does function
with the IO-PWR cable.

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Camera Mounting Options

The BOA Spot Vision System provides M4 holes on the sides of the camera for
convenient mounting as shown in the following illustrations.

Surface Mount

Thru Fit Mount

It has been observed that using only

two screws, is susceptible to vibration.

Optional LED Ring Light

The BOA Spot with an M12 Lens supports the factory option of adding a ring light inside
the M12 lens cover. The light mounts to the camera through 4 HEX M3 threaded standoffs. Available in White, Red, and Blue. Note: The ring light opening is not large enough
to support the C-Mount lens.

High power LED ring light

attached to BOA Spot
M12 lens models

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BOA Spot Mechanical Dimensions

Top View

Side
View

Side
View

Note: All dimensions in mm

Bottom View

Back View

C Mount Lens
Cover
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Panel Link Mechanical Dimensions

PL-101 Top View

PL-101 Side View

Note: All dimensions in mm

PL-100 Top View

PL-100 Side View

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Specifications
General Specifications
This following table lists the specifications of the BOA Spot vision system:
Specification

Definition

Memory

Storage

256MB Storage; 256MB Program

Image

Sensor

1/3 CMOS; 3.75 m pixel size, Global Shutter

Resolution

640x480 and 1280x960

Type

Monochrome Progressive Scan

Exposure

22 us to 1000 ms

Acquisition

full-frame integration, 58 f/s (application dependent)

Lens

M12 or C Mount (factory configured)

Trigger

1 opto-isolated hardware trigger input

I/O

Software trigger via Ethernet or internal timer

Inputs

2 General purpose opto-isolated.

Outputs

3 General purpose opto-isolated

Strobe

1 output may be used to sync an external light source

Status

Network + 2 application assigned LEDs

Network

Ethernet

10/100 BaseT

Serial

RS232

1 Port on I/O connector

Power

12-24 V

on I/O or Ethernet connectors (not IEEE 802.3af PoE compliant)

Device

(BOA Spot) 5.64 Watts; 235 mA maximum @ 24 V

Lamp

(LED Ring-Light) 9.74 Watts; 406 mA maximum @ 24 V

Material

Machined Aluminum with anodize/paint finish

Mounting

8 x M4

Size

58.2 mm x 61.2 mm x 53 mm with M12 lens cover,

58.2 mm x 61.2 mm x 91.5 mm with C Mount lens cover

Temp

-10C (14F) to 50C (122F) Operating (-60C to 80C) Storage

Protection

IP67 with cables attached

Shock

70 G

Mechanical

Environment

Certification

BOA Spot Quick Start

FCC Class A and EU CE

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Input Specifications
The BOA Spot vision system provides three (3) dedicated opto-isolated, polarity
independent inputs. One of the inputs provides the acquisition Trigger function, while
the other two are general purpose.
Specification
Voltage

Definition
ON

11-30 V

OFF

0-3 V (12 V nominal threshold)

Current

ON

8.0 mA typical (24 V applied)

Protection

Resistance

3.0 K Ohms

Isolation

4000 V RMS

Common pin

Input

PWR or GND

Switch Time

ON

20 Microseconds

OFF

10 Microseconds

Trigger

62 Microseconds from trigger input to start of acquisition

Latency

The active polarity of each input is configured in the BOA Spot application. The camera
includes a noise filter on the input which is also configurable.
To connect with an NPN source, connect the camera input (pin 5, 6 or 12) to the NPN
source output and the camera common input (pin 7) to PWR. When the source output
turns ON, the camera input will be pulled down turning the opto-coupler ON.
To connect with an PNP source, connect the camera input (pin 5, 6 or 12) to the PNP
source output and the camera common input (pin 7) to GND. When the source output
turns ON, the camera input will be pulled up turning the opto-coupler ON.
Input Diagram
NPN Wiring

BOA Spot Quick Start

PNP Wiring

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Output Specifications
The BOA Spot vision system provides three (3) dedicated opto-isolated, solid state
relay outputs. One may be used as strobe pulse output for an external light source. Or
all three can be used as general purpose outputs.
Specification

Definition

Voltage (Vin)

Load

30V maximum

Current

GPO[0:2]

160 mA max @ 20C (drives to OCMN when active)

Protection

Fuse

PTC fuses to 160 mA at 20C or 100 mA at 70C

Common pin

Out

PWR or GND

Switch Time

ON

150 Microseconds typical

OFF

50 Microseconds typical

The active polarity of each output is configured in BOA Spot application as detailed on
the following page.
To connect with an NPN input source, connect the camera output (pin 3, 10 or 11) to the
NPN source input and the camera common output (pin 4) to GND. When the camera
output turns ON, the opto switch closes and OUTX = 0 (current flows through load).
To connect with an PNP input source, connect the camera output (pin 3, 10 or 11) to the
PNP source input and the camera common output (pin 4) to PWR. When the camera
output turns ON, the opto switch closes and OUTX = output common.
Output Diagram
PNP Wiring

Supply 12-30V

NPN Wiring

Supply 12-30V

PNP

NPN
Ground

BOA Spot Quick Start

Ground

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PL-101 Specifications
The PL-101 module offers additional isolation for the BOA Spot camera and simplifies
wiring at the control panel. The PL-101 is connected to the camera through a single
M12 cordset. When using the PL-101, Power input PWR must be 24 Volts.
The I/O and RS-232 connections of BOA Spot are available through the PL-101.
Specification for these signals are as follows:
Specification

Definition

Voltage

Load

24 V maximum

Current

GPO[0:1]

200 mA max @ 20C

Protection

Fuse

PTC fuses to 200 mA at 20C or 150 mA at 70C

Common

ICMN/OCMN

PWR or GND as wired on respective OPTOs

Switch Time

GPO[0:1]

800 Microseconds (ON or OFF, includes camera switch time)

PL-101 Connections

I/O connection to
BOA Spot

9 pin DSUB for

serial connection

Manual Trigger for

debugging

Control panel I/O

connections

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PL-101 Wiring Diagrams

Current Sinking Outputs (NPN)

Current Sourcing Outputs (PNP)

Out0/Strb

Out0/Strb

Out1

Out1

Out2

Out2

+
24V

OCMN

OCMN

+
24V

Molex connector terminals

Current Sinking Inputs (NPN)

Current Sourcing Inputs (PNP)

In0/Trig

In0/Trig

In1

In1

In2

In2

ICMN

+
24V

ICMN

24V

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Serial Port Connection

The RS-232 serial port is exposed through the I/O connector and available on the PL101 module. By default, the serial port settings are set as follows:
Port definition

Setting

Baud Rate

115200

Data Bits

Parity

None

Stop Bits

Flow Control

None

These port settings can be changed through the GUI by configuring the RS232 Stream
Settings in the Setup Control panel. Refer to the On-Line Help for details.

RS-232 Hardware Configuration

Electrically, three (3) signals are required to make a serial port connection between
BOA Spot and another device as shown below. RS232 is a point-to-point connection,
so the Receive and Transmit lines must be crossed in the cable.

BOA Spot I/O M12-12 Connector

3rd Party DSUB-9 Connector

Pin

Name

Pin

Name

RS232 RX

Red

TX

GND

Blue

GND

RS232 TX

Gray

RX

1,4,7

Not required

1,4,6,7,8,9

Not required

Color

Note: It is important to establish a common ground between BOA Spot and the
connecting 3rd party device.

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Software Interface
Configure the PC for BOA Spot
BOA Spot is compatible with computers running Windows 8, 7, and XP operating
systems. PC Security settings and the Network Interface should be configured for the
BOA Spot. You must have Administrator Privileges to perform the steps below.
Note: The paths to some tools depend on the Windows configuration and appearance
settings. Some items may appear in the left or the right pane in menus.
A: System Performance
This will increase the performance of your PC in general, and will make the BOA Spot
client application perform better. However, this turns off the visual effects of Aero on W7
or W8. The application will work incorrectly if you do not perform these steps.

1. Open the Control Panel. Click on

System & Security. Click on Advanced
Settings or the Advanced tab.
2. Under Performance, click on Settings.
Click the bubble beside Adjust for Best
Performance. Then click the check boxes
beside Smooth edges of screen fonts
and Use visual styles on windows and
buttons. The performance setting will
change to Custom.
3. Click OK. The appearance will change to
resemble Windows Classic.

B: User Account Control (UAC)

UAC will interfere with loading and running the BOA Spot application software. If your
PC is in a closed factory environment not connected to the Internet, it is safe to turn off
UAC. If your PC is connected to an office network and the Internet, this may not be
safe. You may wish to choose the next higher security setting, and manually approve at
the prompts.
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1. Open the Control Panel. Click on System & Security. Click on Change User
Account Control.
2. Pull the slider all the way to the bottom and then click OK.

C: Windows Firewall
BOA Spot communicates with the PC through the Network connection. Windows
Firewall will block this communication. It is easiest to turn off the firewall. If you must
connect to an office network or to the Internet you can turn the firewall back on.
1. Open the Control Panel. Click on System and Security. Click on Windows
Firewall. If you get a message that says the service is not running, click No (do
not start the firewall). Skip forward to D. Internet Explorer.
2. Click Turn Windows Firewall on or off. Click the bubble beside Off (not
recommended) in all categories. Click OK.
Note: If you prefer to leave the Firewall on, you can run the Application and approve
each process as it gets reported by the firewall as potentially unsafe. Return to the
Windows Firewall, and click on Allow a program or feature through Windows Firewall
and verify what processes are being allowed or denied.

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D: Internet Explorer
1. Open Internet Explorer. If there is no menu bar, click on Tools and select Menu
bar.
2. Pull down the Tools menu, and select Internet Options. Click the Security tab.

3. Click on Trusted Sites. Pull the

Allowed level slider to the bottom.
4. Click the Sites button.

5. Clear the check box beside Require

server verification (https) for all sites.
6. In the upper field, type the IP Address of
your BOA Spot.
7. Click the Add button, then click Close.

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Configure the BOA Spot Address

The BOA Spot vision system is supplied with the vision software embedded. This
application offers a suite of vision capabilities to satisfy a range of automated inspection
tasks. The application interface is accessed through the Ethernet connection using a
PC with Microsoft Internet Explorer 6 or higher. Normally you do not need to install
software on your PC to setup or operate the BOA Spot system.
Take note of the following before attempting to access the application:
1. BOA Spot cameras are preconfigured with a default static IP address of
192.168.0.100
2. There are two ways you can change the address to match your network or PC:
using the iDiscover Utility (page 27) or using the web server interface (page 28)
using Internet Explorer 6 or later. iDiscover is installed by the Emulator software,
and is available on the CD.
3. BOA Spot supports both DHCP and Static IP addressing (preferred since the
address does not change). Make note of the IP address you configure the camera
for.
NOTE: A power cycle is required before the new address will take effect.
4. If you incorrectly set, or forgot, the new address of your BOA Spot, you can run the
iDiscover utility. This program is installed automatically when you click on the BOA
Spot or upgrade hot links in the web server interface. You can also manually
install it from the BOA Spot CD, or run it directly from the CD.
5. In most cases you will need administrator privileges on your PC to access BOA
Spot. It may be necessary to customize the security settings on your browser to
download and run ActiveX controls.
6. If for any reason you can not access BOA Spot from your internet browser, you can
install the emulator application from the shipping CD and connect to the camera
through this interface. This step is explained in more detail later in the manual.

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The iDiscover BOA Utility

The iDiscover utility attempts to discover all BOA Spot cameras connected to the local
network. iDiscover is installed on the client PC when a BOA Spot camera is first
connected, or as part of the emulator installation.
The iDiscover program can be launched in one of three ways:
a. If the PC has previously been used to interface a BOA Spot camera, then the
iDiscover program resides in the windows System32 directory. To invoke, open the
command prompt (Start>Programs>Run), type iDiscover and click OK
b. If the PC has not previously been used to interface a BOA Spot camera, you must
first install the BOA Spot Emulator software. Once installed, the program can be
invoked from the iDiscover shortcut (Start>Programs>Teledyne DALSA>iNspect
Express Emulator for BOASpot>Discover BOASpot Cameras).
c. A separate copy of iDiscover is provided on the CD that ships with the BOA Spot.
You can copy this to your PC, or run it directly from the CD. Right-click and select
Run as Administrator.
The left panel shows the MAC addresses of all reachable BOA Spot cameras. Blue
cameras have compatible addresses. Red cameras have incompatible addresses.
1. Click on a camera, to populate the associated network configuration on the right.
2. You can then change the BOA Spot IP address and click Apply.
3. Connect to a compatible BOA Spot by clicking Connect To Device to open the web
server (next page, step 3).

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The BOA Spot Web Server

The BOA Spot web server is a portal through which the BOA Spot vision system can be
set up and configured for an application. The web server is accessed from a PC (client)
using Microsoft Internet Explorer version 6 or higher as follows:
1. If you have not yet changed the default address, the PC used to access BOA Spot
initially will need to be configured on the same network neighborhood, but with a
different address (i.e. 192.168.0.101). Consult your system administrator for
instructions on how to do this. The subnet mask should be set automatically to
255.255.255.0
2. Open Internet Explorer on the PC connected to the camera. Enter the BOA Spot
address in Internet Explorers address bar: 192.168.0.100 and click Go or enter.
3. The BOA Spot web server interface is displayed in the browser, as shown below.
4. The web server provides a quick snapshot of the state of the camera and provides
controls for language selection, IP address setup, firmware upgrading and image
backup or restore. The web server is the portal into the application and can be set
up to prevent unauthorized access.
5. The static IP address can be changed to match your Local Area Network. Click on
the Setup Device hot link to change the network address. Remember to keep a
record of what the new address is set to. The BOA Spot must be rebooted after an
address change.
6. Click on the iNspect hot link to launch the application. The BOA Spot will
automatically install some software components on the client PC when it connects
for the first time. These components set up the remote access to the BOA Spot.
7. Using the BOA Spot software, set up an inspection application and store the
Solution on the camera. Exit the application and return to the web server interface.

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BOA Spot Application Window

The BOA Spot application window has three panels. The left panel is for Instruction and
Setup. The large right panel is for displaying the Image, and drawing tools. The bottom
right panel is for Configuration and displaying Status. The top right panel is the
Navigation bar.
Definition: Inspection programs are called Solutions. You configure (program) and
save a Solution to the BOA Spot memory. BOA Spot runs or switches between
Solutions stored in its memory. You can also export your Solutions to the client PC.
Navigation bar

Image
& Tool
Drawing

Instruction
& Setup

Configuration & Status

The BOA Spot application will open to the Select Solution (as shown) if there is no
Solution currently running. The application opens to the Run panel if a Solution is
currently running. The run status is displayed at the top of the Instruction & Setup panel.
When you apply power to the BOA Spot, it will load and start running Solution0, if
you have Auto Load enabled, and if there is a Solution0 saved in the BOA Spot
memory.
If there is no Solution0, or you do not have Auto Load enabled, BOA Spot opens to
the Select Solution panel and waits for you to load a Solution, or start a new
Solution.
If BOA Spot is running, it will continue running and inspecting when you close the
quit or application window. The application window runs on the PC only.
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Programming the BOA Spot

The following steps are an overview to programming a Solution with BOA Spot.
1. Click on Select Solution in the Navigation bar.
2. Click Start New Solution in the Configuration panel.
3. Click Sensor Setup in the Navigation bar.
4. Select a timing mode: Internal, External or Software trigger.
a. If you are using external trigger you can enable a delay between the trigger and
taking a picture, to help center your object in the image
b. If you are using external trigger you can enable the strobe control. You can set a
delay (offset) and duration. This controls the LED ring light, or a pulse output.
5. You can adjust the image exposure and brightness.
6. Click Setup Tools in the Navigation bar.
7. Take a picture of your part. This image becomes your Template for creating tools
and measurements. Tip: You can re-take the picture (before creating tools!) if you
are not satisfied with it.
If you are using moving parts, click Wait for Trigger.
If you are using a still part, click snap immediately.
Tip: If you part moves around in the image window, you should start by creating a
locator before adding other tools. See page 31, and the on-line Help for examples.
8. Create your Tools. Some illustrative examples begin on page 31.
9. Click Run in the Navigation bar. Watch your tools perform. Note if any adjustments
are needed. Notice the Inspect Time.
10. Click Save in the Navigation bar. Enter a number and a description. Click Save to
save the Solution to the BOA Spot memory. Save frequently so you do not lose your
valuable time and work.
Tip: You do not have to save in order. You do not have to start with 0. If this is not your
finished program, pick a higher number. You can overwrite or delete solutions later. You
can Export your saved Solutions to the PC, for additional backup security. You must
save Solutions to BOA Spot memory, first before you can Export them.
11. Click Setup Connections in the Navigation bar, to set up Inputs, Outputs, or other
communications (serial port, PLC, etc.).
12. Click Save in the Navigation bar. Save your Solution.
NOTE: The Help gives several examples of Locators. There are examples of the Tools
and their uses in the Tools Application Manual. The Help details all the tool settings.
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Examples: Bottles, Vials, or Containers

A photo sensor or proximity sensor can trigger the BOA Spot when a container moves
into position. This section gives examples of using BOA Spot tools for inspections.
1. The Edge Count Tool or the Point Tool could be used to find the side or top of the
container. The Edge Tool needs a sharp contrast between light and dark.
a. Finding the side would give the position of the container, to anchor or locate
other tools. Not finding the side edge could indicate the absence of the container
(fallen or a false trigger).
b. Finding the top could tell you the height, or tell if the top is broken, a cap is not
fitted correctly, or a container has fallen.
c. The Edge Count or Point Tool could be used to find the fill level.
2. The Intensity Tool or Count Tool could be used to find the presence or absence of:
contaminates on a cleaned container, content or fill, a cap or seal.
3. The Caliper tool can be measure distance, inner or outer dimension.
Create a Locator
1. In the Setup Tools panel, take a picture of a good container.
2. Click the Edge Count button and draw a line from Right to Left
across the right edge of the container (so the arrow points into
the container as shown).
3. Right-click on the tool to open the Edge Count properties.
Adjust the direction and sensitivity if necessary, to detect the
edge of the container. Click on Activate Points. Click Accept.
4. The Point is added to the Tool List. Click on the Point icon to
open the Point tool properties. Under Act as Locator click the
second bubble, beside Pos. Click Accept. A cross-hair
symbol appears on the point, to indicate the position anchor.
5. As you create new tools, they will attach to the Locator.
Contamination: The Edge Count tool finds the side
of the container and positions the Intensity tool. The
Intensity tool (rectangle) detects the presence of
contaminates in or on the container. The intensity
value goes down if the container is not clean.
(Intensity would go up if the contaminates are
reflective.) Lighting and materials have a strong
affect on this tool.
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Fill: The Edge Count tool finds the side of the

container and positions the Intensity tool. The
Intensity tool (rectangle) detects the presence
and level of content in the container. The
intensity value goes up if the rectangle is empty
or only partially occupied, indicating the level is
low.

Capping: The Edge Count tool

finds the side of the container, and
positions the other tools. The
Intensity tool (rectangle) detects a
dark cap, and the Edge Count tool
(line) detects a process error:
finding an edge is an error in this
example.

Intensity <150

Intensity >150

Cap is present

Cap is absent

Cap is deformed

Edge=0
Intensity<50

Edge=0
Intensity>50

Edge=1
Intensity<50

Label: The Edge Count tool locates the

side of the container and positions the
Match tool. The Match tool (rectangle)
looks for problems (missing or deformed) in
the Label on the container.
Match=100%

Match=70%

Packaging: Add a second Edge

Count tool as shown (arrow points
in) if the package rotates or moves
in two directions. In Act as Locator
click by Rot. A small flag icon
indicates the rotation anchor.
The 2 Edge Count tools find the
edges of the package and position
the Count tool. The Count tool
counts the number of containers (by
the black cap) in the package
(looking down on the package).

Count=16

Count=14

The Count Tools labels (numbers) are not shown in this illustration.

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Input Control
The BOA Spot application provides two options for controlling the inputs. These are
selected in Setup Connections in the Configuration panel as shown below. Click on
the GUI table cells to change the control parameters.

Click the trigger Polarity

cell to change the trigger
input polarity.
Each input supports a noise filter called debounce. A signal must remain active for the
duration of the filter to be considered valid. The debounce settings range from 1us to
64ms. GPI0 is a special input that is used either as a Trigger or general purpose input.
When used for triggering, the polarity of this input is programmable.
BOA Spot inputs are available to the script tool for synchronizing with external events.

Output Control
The BOA Spot application provides two options for controlling the outputs. These are
selected in Setup Connections in the Configuration panel as shown below. Click on
the GUI table cells to set the Driver, polarity and associated pulse parameters.

Click a cell in the

Driver column to
change the output
source. GPO2 can
also select a
Strobe Pulse.

Click a cell in the

Polarity column to
change the output
polarity.

Note: The Strobe driver uses the offset/duration settings defined in the sensor panel. The
active polarity only affects the external STROBE output.
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Selecting the Right Output Driver

Each BOA Spot output can be configured by an equation in the script tool or a
programmable pulse based the inspection result (either Pass, Fail or Recycle):
Script Setting: Use the script tool to configure an output to provide a programmable
level or a pulse based on the application need (Note: the GUI pulse settings are
disabled in this mode shown as dark gray above). Script selection is nondeterministic, meaning the output timing may vary if the processor is heavily loaded.
This may occur, for example, when the trigger and inspection times are close and BOA
Spot is serving images to a connected PC.
Example: A script equation that generates an active high 10ms pulse based on a PASS
result would be:
If (Result = 1) Global.GPO[0] = pulse( 1, 0 ,10)
Soft Pulse Setting: Selecting this setting will automatically define scripts based on the
pulse settings defined in the GUI. This offers a convenient alternative to learning the
script tool if you only need to generate a pulse output.
Pulse Setting: This mode offers a deterministic output with an offset and duration
synchronized to the incoming trigger. In this mode, the output will pulse IF the result is
TRUE and the total inspection time is less than the pulse offset from the trigger. If the
pulse offset is too short, BOA Spot will not generate a pass pulse even if the inspection
passes. In this case, BOA Spot will always generate a FAIL pulse if FAIL is selected on
the second output. This would result in false rejects if the output is being used to control
a directional device.
Min Pulse Offset = Exposure Time + Acquisition Time + Inspection Time
Example: Pulse 10 ms on GPO0 for a PASS result OR pulse 30 ms on GPO1 for a FAIL
result. Sensor exposure time is 9 ms, acquisition time is ~16 ms and inspection time is
~35 ms. Minimum Pulse Offset = 9+16+35=60 ms. IF the minimum offset is satisfied,
BOA Spot will output a PASS pulse on a good result, ELSE BOA Spot will output a FAIL
pulse instead. The duration of the pulse is not significant in this decision. However,
setting the pulse longer than the trigger period is not advised. Max pulse duration is 64
ms.
Note: Processing overhead can also affect the minimum pulse offset requirement. It is
good practice to calibrate this time based on your typical expected usage of the system
(i.e. inspection time overhead + system access overhead)

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The Application Setup Page

Some hardware changeable parameters of BOA Spot cameras are available on the
Application Setup page. The main features are described below.

You can enable or disable displaying a Recycle tolerance.

You can select which solution the camera loads at startup. Note: This can also be
controlled from the script function.
You can enable using a Template Solution.
You can upgrade an SL model to the EL model.
Note: The camera must be rebooted by clicking the Apply Configure button before
changes take effect. Close the Web Browser while the BOA Spot reboots.
When the inspection Solution is set up and stored on the camera, the Ethernet
connection can be disconnected and the inspection will run autonomously (providing
you are not communicating with 3rd party equipment using Ethernet)
The camera can store up to 32 Solutions in its flash storage memory. These solutions
can be switched through network commands, or through established PLC register
connections or through the BOA Spot application interface or API.
The camera administrator can setup user accounts. With password control enabled, the
web server will prompt users for a valid login. Various levels of access privilege can be
selected for each user account, and the application will only expose controls associated
with that account.
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Firmware Upgrading from the Web Server

BOA Spot firmware may need to be updated
occasionally to add new features or fix reported
problems. To do this, click on the Upgrade
Device hotlink to launch the upgrade control. To
upgrade, simply browse to the location of the
upgrade binary file (obtain from your Teledyne
DALSA representative) on the connected PC and
click the upgrade button. Note: Export your
saved solution files before upgrading the
firmware.
The upgrade control also supports backup and restore of the entire camera image. This
is useful for safekeeping and camera replication.
Note: An alternative upgrade utility called iUpgrade All is also accessible through the
Windows start menu if the BOA Spot Emulator Software is installed.

The iAssistant Utillity

After a firmware upgrade, it is recommended that the connecting PC be cleaned of old
or stale components associated with the previous firmware. To do this, either

Open to the windows command prompt, enter iAssistant and click go.

Open the program from the windows shortcut if the Emulator software has been
installed (next page). Windows Start>All Programs>Teledyne DALSA>iNpsect
Express Emulator for BOASpot>iAssistant

When the application launches, click the Clean button.

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The BOA Spot Emulator & Complementary Programs

The BOA Spot vision system is shipped with a full-featured emulator that allows you to
prepare or debug solutions offline. The emulator is available on the CD that ships with
the camera and is easy to install (load CD into your CD drive and follow the installation
wizard). A users manual for the emulator is also included on the CD.
The emulator installation offers a number of complementary programs and an alternate
way to access the BOA Spot camera for users who do not wish to use the standard web
browser interface. After the installation is complete, the following related shortcuts will
be available from the windows start menu:
Start>All Programs>Teledyne DALSA>iNspect Express Emulator for BOASpot>

Launch Emulator Config

Connect not using browser
Discover BOA Spot
cameras

Launch iAssistant program

Launch iDisplay
Launch emulator
Open online Help
Start output logging

Generate solution report

Uninstall
Upgrade BOA firmware
Open user directory

Note: When you access BOA Spot through this interface, it is important that you
maintain version compatibility between the camera and the client.

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The BOA Spot Emulator Configurator

This GUI provides a quick and easy way to setup the emulator. It is launched from the
windows start menu:
Start>All Programs>Teledyne DALSA>iNspect Express Emulator for
BOASpot>BOASpot Emulator Config
Select the BOA Spot model, software application and location of the stored images,
then click Apply Settings and Launch Emulator. If the images dont match the standard
BOA Spot resolutions exactly, select the custom resolution option and add the image
dimensions.

The emulator installation provides some 640x480 images to get started. These are
selected when the use default location box is checked. The application data
directories are hidden under Windows 7, but they are accessible using the browse
images or browse solutions buttons.

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Troubleshooting
Problems Changing the Address
Problem: BOA Spot disappears in iDiscover after clicking Apply. Does not reappear.
Reason: BOA Spot must be rebooted for the new address to take effect.
Solution: Close iDiscover. Cycle power to the BOA Spot. Wait for the boot to complete.
Re-open iDiscover. BOA Spot should now appear.
Problem: Address does not change. BOA Spot still has the factory default address.
Reason: Possibly more than one BOA Spot on the network with the same (new)
address. This can happen if multiple BOA Spots at the factory default are connected.
Solution: Disconnect the BOA Spot that does not change, verify that there are not
other BOA Spots at that address. Connect one at a time to change the addresses.

Problems Connecting to BOA Spot

Problem: Cannot connect to the BOA Spot.
Reason 1: May be running in a very fast loop, repeating too fast to allow communication.
Solution 1: Disconnect the trigger, to pause the program, or disable Auto Load and
reboot the BOA Spot. If this works, try adding a small wait in your program.
Reason 2: Low on memory. The 256MB Program memory is used to cache acquired
images, intermediate results, Match templates, and Solution files for quick switching.
Solution 2: Reboot the BOA Spot. A reboot clears cached Solutions, images, results.
Problem: Unreliable connection.
Reason: Internet Explorer Security settings, or Windows Firewall.
Solution: Refer to instructions on pages 23-25, and 40. Disable the firewall temporarily.

Problems with BOA Spot Running Solutions

Problem: Always outputs a Fail pulse, even when the Monitor shows a Pass result.
Reason: The pulse offset may need to be increased, to allow for the inspection time.
Solution: Please refer to the formula on page 34, under Pulse Setting.
Problem: Solution file will not load.
Reason 1: Solution does not match the current BOA Spot (resolution or model).
Solution 1: Try loading the Solution in the Emulator and see what model is displayed.
Try changing the resolution or model in the Emulator.
Reason 2: If the Solution file will not load in the Emulator, it may be corrupted.
Solution 2: Create a new Solution, or use an earlier version of this solution.
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Problem: Switching is disabled.

Reason: Solution switching is disabled when you edit solution files, and when you
export Solutions. Switching is re-enabled when you save or load a Solution.
Solution: Save the current solution, or go to the Select Solution panel and load a
solution. Note: Loading a Solution in the Run panel does not re-enable switching.

Internet Explorer Security Settings

If you have difficulty connecting to the BOA Spot
reliably, your network security settings may be
interfering. Note: Close all open windows to
apply these settings.
1. Open Internet Explorer. If there is no menu
bar, click on Tools and select Menu bar.
2. Pull down the Tools menu, and select
Internet Options. Click the Security tab.
3. In the Internet Properties, click the
Advanced tab. Scroll down to the Security
section.
4. Clear the checkbox for Enable memory
protection to help mitigate online attacks.
5. Clear the 3 checkboxes beside certificates,
and signatures.
6. Click OK.
7. Re-open the Internet Options, and click on
the Security tab.
8. Click on Trusted sites. Click the Custom
level button.
9. Scroll down to find Download options.
10. Change the Download unsigned ActiveX
controls to Prompt.
11. Click OK.

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