Aiming and Focusing
In order to ensure that every camera in a mocap system takes full advantage of its capability, they need to be focused and aimed at the target tracking volume. This page includes detailed instructions on how to adjust the focus and aim of each camera for an optimal motion capture. OptiTrack cameras are focused at infinity by default, which is generally sufficient for common tracking applications. However, we recommend users to always double-check the camera view and make sure the captured images are focused when first setting up the system. Obtaining best quality image is very important as 3D data is derived from the captured images.
General Steps
Pick a camera to adjust the aim and focus.
Place one or more reflective markers in the tracking volume.
Carefully adjust the camera angle while monitoring the Camera Preview so that the desired capture volume is included within the camera coverage.
Adjust the focus (detailed instruction given below) so that the captured image is resolved as clearly as possible.
Repeat above steps for other cameras in the system.
Aim Assist Button
Adjusting Aiming
Adjusting Focus
All OptiTrack cameras (except the V120:Duo/Trio tracking bars) can be re-focused to optimize image clarity at any distance within the tracking range. Change the camera mode to raw grayscale mode and adjust the camera setting, increase exposure and LED setting, to capture the brightest image. Zoom onto one of the reflective markers in the capture volume and check clarity of the image. Then, adjust the camera focus and find the point where the marker image is best resolved. The following images show some examples.
Auto-zoom using Aim Assist button
Double-click on the aim assist button to have the software automatically zoom into a single marker near the center of the camera view. This makes the focusing process a lot easier to accomplish for a single person.
How to Change Focus
PrimeX 41 and PrimeX 22
For PrimeX 41 and 22 models, camera focus can be adjusted by rotating the focus ring on the lens body, which can be accessed at the center of the camera. The front ring on the lens changes the focus of the camera, and the rear ring adjusts the F-stop of the lens. In most cases, it is beneficial to set the f-stop low to have the aperture at its maximum size for capturing the brightest image. Carefully rotate the focus ring while monitoring the 2D grayscale camera view for image clarity. Once the focus and f-stop have been optimized on the lens, it should be locked down by tightening the set screw. In default configuration, PrimeX 41 cameras are equipped with 12mm F#1.8 lens, and the PrimeX 22 cameras are equipped with 6.8mm F#1.6 lens.
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