GigE Camera Performance Optimization on Windows and Linux

How can I optimize GigE camera performance on Windows and Linux?

GigE camera performance can be affected by network adapter, operating system, and camera settings. Under certain circumstances - especially on Linux-based ARM systems - default settings may result in camera connection loss, dropped images, increased CPU load, or higher latency.

Adjusting parameters such as jumbo packet size, receive buffers, interrupt moderation, ring buffers, and UDP receive buffers can help achieve more reliable and efficient GigE camera operation.

For detailed instructions, recommended parameter values, and the required commands, see our Application Note:

Windows and Linux Performance Optimizations for Optimal Use of GigE Cameras

What Windows settings should I adjust for GigE cameras?

On Windows, the relevant settings are located in the network interface adapter properties. Depending on the adapter and driver, these include:

• Jumbo Packet Size

• Receive Buffers

• Interrupt Moderation

• Interrupt Moderation Rate

• Receive Side Scaling (RSS)

The Application Note explains which values to use and how to adjust the settings for different performance requirements.

What Linux settings can improve GigE camera performance?

On Linux, performance can be optimized by adjusting network and system parameters such as the Maximum Transmission Unit (MTU), rtprio, rp_filter, rmem_max, ring buffers, and Interrupt Moderation Rate.

The Application Note provides the relevant commands and configuration instructions, including the required ethtool package.

How can I reduce dropped images or buffer underruns with a GigE camera?

Dropped images and buffer underruns may occur when the system cannot process incoming image data quickly enough. Increasing buffer sizes, optimizing network settings, and adjusting the Interrupt Moderation Rate (IMR) may help.

For example, reducing the IMR can service buffers faster, while disabling interrupt moderation can be useful when low latency is more important than CPU utilization.

See the Application Note for the recommended settings and troubleshooting steps.

How do I configure jumbo frames for a GigE camera?

To benefit from jumbo frames, you must configure both the network infrastructure and the camera for a larger packet size. The network adapter, switches, and routers must support jumbo frames, and the camera's packet size must also be increased - this is automatically done by the IC4 GenTL GigE Drivers.

The Application Note explains how to configure the relevant settings on Windows and Linux.

Where can I find the detailed GigE camera performance optimization instructions?

Our Application Note provides a comprehensive overview of the relevant Windows, Linux, and camera settings, including recommended values, console commands, and troubleshooting options.

Read the Application Note:

Windows and Linux Performance Optimizations for Optimal Use of GigE Cameras