IMX519-78 16MP Auto-Focus Camera Module - 78.5° FOV for Raspberry Pi 4B/3B+/Zero

Specifications

• Sensor Type: Sony IMX519 Back-Illuminated CMOS

• Resolution: 16 Megapixels (4656 x 3496 pixels)

• Focusing Type: Auto-Focus (AF) via VCM

• Field of View (FOV): 78.5° (Distortion-free)

• Focal Length: 4.28mm

• F-Stop (Aperture): F1.79

• Interface: MIPI CSI-2 (15-Pin standard)

• Compatibility: Raspberry Pi 4B, 3B+, 3A+, 3B, 2B, B+, A, and Pi Zero/Zero W (requires adapter cable)

Key Applications and Projects

• Automated Document Scanning: Using the 16MP resolution and auto-focus to capture crystal clear text for OCR processing.

• OctoPrint / 3D Printer Monitoring: Capturing high-quality timelapses of your prints without having to manually dial in the focal length.

• AI Machine Vision: Feeding high-fidelity, undistorted image data into TensorFlow or OpenCV models for superior object recognition accuracy.

Unlock New Capabilities (Project Evolution)

• Vision Upgrade: Transition from the classic V2 8MP fixed-focus camera to this 16MP AF module to instantly double your resolution and gain the ability to inspect objects dynamically at varying distances.

• Macro Photography: Utilize the Auto-Focus capability to bring the camera within centimeters of an object (like a PCB being inspected) and achieve perfect clarity via software commands.

Package Includes:

• 1 x IMX519-78 16MP Auto-Focus Camera Module

• 1 x Standard 15-Pin CSI Ribbon Cable

• 1 x 22-pin to 15-pin CSI adapter cable

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)

1. What is the resolution of this camera? It features a 16 Megapixel sensor, capable of capturing still images at 4656 x 3496 pixels.

2. Does it have auto-focus? Yes, it has a built-in voice coil motor (VCM) that allows the lens to auto-focus via software commands.

3. Which Raspberry Pi models are compatible? It works with nearly all models, including the 4B, 3B+, 3A+, 3B, 2B, B+, and A.

4. Will it work with a Raspberry Pi Zero? Yes, but you must use a specific 22-pin to 15-pin CSI adapter cable, as the Zero has a smaller camera port.

5. What is the Field of View (FOV)? It has a 78.5-degree FOV, which provides a standard, distortion-free image.

6. Does the image look like a "fisheye" lens? No, 78.5 degrees is a normal viewing angle, meaning straight lines (like documents or walls) will remain straight without barrel distortion.

7. Do I need to install special drivers? Depending on your Raspberry Pi OS version, you may need to install the libcamera stack and the specific IMX519 sensor overlays to utilize the auto-focus feature properly.

8. Can I manually focus it if I want to? Yes, through the software interface (like libcamera-still), you can set manual lens positions to lock the focus at a specific distance.

9. Can it record video? Yes, it can stream and record video at various resolutions and frame rates (e.g., 1080p).

10. Does it have night vision? No, this is a standard daylight RGB sensor. It has an integrated IR-cut filter, so it will not work with infrared LEDs in the dark.

11. Where does it plug in? It plugs into the dedicated MIPI CSI (Camera Serial Interface) port on the Raspberry Pi board using a ribbon cable.

12. Can I use a longer ribbon cable? Yes, you can purchase longer CSI cables, but exceeding 30-50cm can degrade the high-speed data signal and cause glitches.

13. Is this an official Raspberry Pi Foundation camera? No, it is a high-quality third-party camera that utilizes the widely supported Sony IMX519 sensor.

14. How do I mount it to my project? The black PCB has four standard gold-plated mounting holes in the corners for M2 screws.

15. Does it have a microphone? No, CSI camera modules do not capture audio. You would need a separate USB microphone.

16. Why is the back of the board so complex? The back features the CSI connector and several surface-mount components, including the driver IC required to operate the auto-focus motor.

17. What is the aperture of the lens? It features an F1.79 aperture, which performs quite well in standard indoor lighting conditions.

18. Is it good for 3D printer timelapses? Yes, it is excellent for OctoPrint. The auto-focus ensures the print stays crisp even if you move the camera closer or further away.

19. What does the "78" in the name mean? It refers to the 78.5-degree Field of View.

20. Can I use this directly via USB? No, it is a CSI-interface camera. To use it via USB on a standard PC, you would need a specialized CSI-to-USB adapter board.