A leading manufacturer of quality video products since 1970  

VMU300A  Video Measurement Unit (Scaler)

The VMU series of video calipers from MicroImage Video Systems utilize extensive digital processing to maintain high accuracy and repeatability. Usable with most video cameras, the VMU300A provides fast, efficient and affordable non-contact measurement. Units are compatible with NTSC/PAL/RS170 and CCIR video standards.

The MicroImage VMU series of video measurement units are designed to be highly flexible and powerful, yet easy to use. Unlike analog based units, all mathematics are done digitally, allowing the VMU series to maintain consistent precision regardless of the scale factor. All lines are digitally rendered for solid, repeatable performance over time with virtually zero drift. High precision optical encoders are used for the position controls, eliminating jitter which can plague analog based measurement devices

VMU300A units produced after June 20, 2004 will support both NTSC and PAL (as well as RS170 and CCIR) video standards. The units will automatically detect the signal and adjust accordingly. B&W or S-Video signals are recommended over composite video for the highest performance. The units will also work with composite video signals. NTSC/RS170 models have an impressive 1280 x 480 maximum measurement resolution while the PAL/CCIR units have 1536 x 576 maximum measurement resolution.

Using the VMU series is easy. A size reference is placed in the field of view and the cursors are moved to the reference dimensions. The calibration value is entered on the keypad and can be set to the X or Y axis. This provides far more range and precision than using a rotary control to set calibration. From this point on, the unit is calibrated, provided the distance to the object or magnification (zoom) doesn't change. Ten memories are provided to store multiple calibrations for different optics/magnifiers saving significant time. The units remember all settings in non- volatile memory when turned off.

The coordinate display can be moved virtually anywhere on the screen. Any combination of x, y or diagonal measurements can be displayed at the same time. The number of displayed digits can be limited to make reading easier in some applications. The color and background of the numeric display can be changed while the lines can be changed from black to white from a front panel switch. Any line can independently be turned off, displayed as solid, or serrated for maximum flexibility.

A number of additional features have been added to simplify day to day usage. Cursors may be moved fully independently or may be moved in pairs where one control moves both cursors on the same axis and the second control changes the spacing between them. Each control may be independently locked to avoid inadvertent adjustment. Controls can also be independently locked from within the menu system, regardless of the state of the lock button as further protection against accidental change. The lines may be displayed full screen or can be displayed as a box on screen. A front panel bypass switch allows the user to quickly turn the line and coordinate display off or on as needed. A color bar generator is provided for simple monitor testing and adjustment.

All VMU series products can be powered from a +12VDC, negative ground power source. A serial remote option is also available for use with automated systems. Contact MicroImage Video Systems for units that work with RGB Video signals. For OEM applications, MicroImage Video Systems can provide board level product, private labeling or even custom functions. The units are based on a new MicroImage Video platform which is highly flexible and programmable. All units carry a one year parts and labor limited warranty.

At MicroImage Video Systems we incorporate suggestions from customers when possible. Several customers suggested password protection so that calibration settings could not be changed. We added this capability to all production units with several levels of password protection. It also has a programmable auto time out feature. In the event a key is not pressed within a certain amount of time, the protection is automatically re-enabled. This is important in case it becomes forgotten after a setting is changed. Password protection can also be disabled for easy access in a safe environment.

The VMU300A improves on the VMU300 with higher resolution, sealed optical encoders.

Rack mount and RoHS units are not available for this product.

The VMU300A is available packaged (cased) or as a board level product for OEM applications. Power is provided by a universal desktop power supply (included with cased products) or it can be operated from +12VDC (negative ground). Board level products do not include the power supply and a 12VDC power source must be provided.  The unit is packaged in a durable metal enclosure. Board Level, OEM and Custom products are also available. Please contact MicroImage Engineering for additional information.

The VMU300A has a one year parts and labor limited warranty.