7-Port Multiplexer (ROV/AUV)#
Introduction#
Providing underwater robots the ability to perceive the ocean is an important mission behind our cameras. With the exploreHD Multiplexer, you can now connect 7 cameras in one port with low latency and extreme reliability. Whether you are looking to increase the efficiency in your mission, improve the capabilities in your autonomous systems, or add further tooling options in your vehicle, the exploreHD Multiplexer board will enable you to complete these goals by providing you with the vision needed.
Designed to be as easy to use as possible: plug and play with our cameras, no soldering required, no drivers needed, easy to mount on the most popular underwater systems (BlueROV, Raspberry Pi, etc).
Technical Specifications#
USB Data Output Connection: USB Type C
Power Input Connection: JST-PH 2.54
USB Input Connector
Housing: PAP-04V-S
JST Crimp: SPHD-002T-P0.5
Deliverable Wattage: 35W
Input Voltage: 5V
Hi-Speed (480 Mbits/s), Full-Speed (12 Mbits/s), and Low-Speed (1.5 Mbits/s) compatible
Installation#
Note
If the camera is going into an ROV electronic enclosure, you will need to waterproof the wires properly using a cable penetrator. You can either use potted penetrators or WetLink from Blue Robotics.
Recommended Cable Penetrators
Cable Waterproofing
Step 1
Ensure that the camera is mounted securely on the ROV as you like it with the previous steps
Step 2
Cut off the USB cable to the desired length. Ensure to leave extra length for when the cable is in the enclosure.
Step 3
Strip the cable to the length that will be in the electronic enclosure.
Step 4
Twist the section of wires that are stripped from the black rubber insulation
Step 5
Depending on the cable penetrator you are using, follow the instructions to waterproof the wires
Powering
The multiplexer board can be externally powered or internally powered via the USB-C port.
For internal power, use the included jumper pins to short the USB PWR JUMPER on the board. Internal power can typically support up to 3 cameras, however, with a higher powered USB-C port, you can do more.
External power is recommended if you are going to have more than 3 cameras. Make sure the jumper pins are removed and use the included power JST connector to supply a steady 5V.
Camera Installation
Step 1
Before attaching the wires to the provided connector housing, please ensure the following tasks have been completed
Cable is properly waterproofed, following the steps in the previous page.
Cable penetrator has the o’ring in the o’ring groove.
Cable penetrator is on the outer portion of the electronic housing end cap.
The wires have been passed through the nut for the cable penetrator.
The nut is on the inner portion of the electronic housing end cap.
Step 2
Important
Ensure you are knowledgeable on the function of each wire.
Black: Ground
Yellow/Green: D+ (DP)
White: D- (DM)
Red: 5V
Carefully insert each indvidual contacts into the connector housing until you hear an audible click. Ensure that the orientation of the connector housing and cable order matches with the image above.
If a mistake has been made, a small flat head screw driver can be used to release the contact from the connector housing. Gently use the screw driver and go under the plastic tabs to release each contact.
Warning
Ensure that the connection is correct. The camera will get damaged if the polarity is not correct.
Step 3
Connect the assembleed connector housing to a the USB Hub.
