Theia Technologies has launched its MCR IQTM Motor Control Board series alongside a new MCR IQTM application. These boards are designed to streamline the operation of Theia’s motorised lenses, enabling users to effortlessly control zoom, focus, P-iris, and optional IR filters. With the integration of the MCR IQTM application, users gain access to a graphical user interface (GUI) and Python module, simplifying the process of sending and receiving commands for rapid evaluation and seamless integration of Theia’s motorised lenses.
The MCR IQ Python module acts as an intermediary, converting motor steps into the requisite commands for the board and facilitating their transmission. Additionally, the companion GUI provides intuitive control over the lens through the MCR IQ control board. These software programs have been developed and tested primarily for Windows operating systems but can be easily adapted for other platforms.
Theia’s motorised lenses come in 4-10mm, 9-36mm, and 12-50mm focal ranges, provide up to 12 megapixel, 300lp/mm resolution and are excellently IR-corrected from 435 – 940nm to maintain their high-resolution performance in the near IR spectrum. The lenses are offered in manual, DC Auto, or P-iris versions, in CS, C mount, and D25 board mount depending on the model. The lenses cover up to 1/1.7” or ½.3” sensor formats depending on the model. The fully motorised lenses come with motorized zoom and focus and combinations with optional integrated IR cut or bandpass filters and photo-interrupter motor stops. The motorised lenses allow for remote set up and occasional zooming and re-focus.
The motor control board can be connected to a host computer via USB, UART, or I2C connection, with byte-string commands remaining consistent across all connection methods. While the Theia MCR IQ Python module is configured for a USB connection to a Windows computer by default, users have the flexibility to adjust the software according to their preferences. Access to the application is provided with the purchase of the board under a royalty-free license, subject to the terms outlined in Theia’s standard BSD license available on their website.