M3E16ZQD-R
AI

The **M3E16ZQD-R** is a high-performance optical lens component, specifically an **auto-iris, motorized zoom, and focus lens** designed for industrial and security imaging systems. It is part of the Computar (CBC Group) lineup, typically used with 1/1.8" or 2/3" sensor formats.
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### 1. Key Electronic Components & Functions
The "electronic" aspect of this lens refers to the actuators and control interfaces that allow a computer or camera controller to manipulate the optics.
| Component | Function | Technical Detail |
| :--- | :--- | :--- |
| **Zoom Motor** | Adjusts focal length | Stepper motor controlled via pulses for precise positioning. |
| **Focus Motor** | Adjusts image sharpness | Motorized movement of the focus group for remote calibration. |
| **Auto-Iris (DC)** | Regulates light intake | A DC-driven galvanometer that opens/closes the aperture based on light levels. |
| **Potentiometers** | Position Feedback | Provides resistance-based feedback to the controller to know the exact position of zoom/focus. |
| **Connector Interface** | Electrical Link | Standard 4-pin or multi-pin connectors for power and control signals. |
### 2. Technical Specifications
The electronics support the following optical parameters through mechanical movement:
* **Focal Length:** 16mm – 160mm (10x Optical Zoom).
* **Iris Type:** DC Auto Iris (controlled by the camera's processing engine).
* **Voltage Requirement:** Typically operates on 6V - 12V DC for the motors.
* **Mount Type:** C-Mount (standard threaded interface with electrical pigtails).
### 3. Electronic Control Logic
To operate the M3E16ZQD-R, the following signal logic is used:
1. **Iris Control:** The camera sends a low-voltage DC signal to the drive coil. The damping coil provides feedback to prevent the iris from hunting (oscillating).
2. **Motorized Zoom/Focus:** These are usually "Polarity Reversal" motors.
* **Forward Polarity:** Moves the lens element toward the Telephoto/Near position.
* **Reverse Polarity:** Moves the lens element toward the Wide/Far position.
3. **Preset Capability:** Because it includes **Presettable (ZQD)** electronics, it contains internal potentiometers. This allows the user to save specific zoom/focus coordinates and return to them automatically.
### 4. Wiring Overview (Typical)
Most models in this series follow a standardized wiring color code for the 4-pin or 6-pin leads:
```yaml
Iris Control:
- Pin 1: Damping Coil (-)
- Pin 2: Damping Coil (+)
- Pin 3: Drive Coil (+)
- Pin 4: Drive Coil (-)
Motor Control (Zoom/Focus):
- Zoom: +/- (Voltage defines direction)
- Focus: +/- (Voltage defines direction)
- Potentiometer: Vcc, Signal, Ground (for presets)
```
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- ⤷What is the difference between a DC Iris and a P-Iris in this lens category?
- ⤷ How do I calibrate the preset potentiometers for the M3E16ZQD-R?
- ⤷ What are the compatible sensor sizes for this specific 16-160mm lens?