03U2
The Watec WAT-03U2 is a compact USB 2.0 color camera featuring a 1/3-inch CMOS sensor, progressive scanning, and selectable output resolutions up to 1280 × 960. It also supports 1280 × 720 HD output and connects through a USB Mini-B interface using USB Video Class.
Minimum illumination is 0.02 lx at F1.4, 1/30 second, with low-light compensation off, or 0.005 lx at F1.4, 1/7.5 second, with low-light compensation on. MJPG output supports frame rates up to 60 fps at 640 × 480. The camera measures 32 × 32 × 23 mm, weighs approximately 35 g, and operates from USB bus power.
The Watec WAT-03U2 is a compact USB 2.0 color camera built around a 1/3-inch CMOS image sensor with 1305 × 977 effective pixels. Progressive scanning and selectable output sizes support applications requiring compact dimensions, high sensitivity, and direct digital video integration.
Available output sizes include 1280 × 960, 1280 × 720, 640 × 480, and 320 × 240. The USB Video Class interface provides video output and control through a USB Mini-B connection, while USB bus power eliminates the need for a separate external power source.
Low-Light Imaging Performance
The WAT-03U2 achieves minimum illumination of 0.02 lx at F1.4 and 1/30 second with low-light compensation off and MJPG output. With low-light compensation enabled, sensitivity extends to 0.005 lx at F1.4 and 1/7.5 second with MJPG output.
Automatic gain control is adjustable from 0 to 42 dB, while manual gain control extends from 0 to 72 dB. Available exposure capabilities include fixed shutter speeds, electronic iris operation, and slow-shutter settings up to ×64 frames.
Resolution and Frame Rate
The camera provides four selectable output sizes: 1280 × 960 in a 4:3 aspect ratio, 1280 × 720 in a 16:9 aspect ratio, 640 × 480 in a 4:3 aspect ratio, and 320 × 240 in a 4:3 aspect ratio.
Maximum frame rates are 30 fps at 1280 × 960 and 1280 × 720, and 60 fps at 640 × 480 and 320 × 240 using MJPG compression. At 60 fps, the central portion of the image is cropped, producing a different angle of view from the other frame-rate modes.
Compact USB-Powered Design
The WAT-03U2 measures 32 mm wide, 32 mm high, and 23 mm deep, with an approximate weight of 35 g. Power is supplied through the USB bus at 5 V DC, with power consumption of 0.75 W at 150 mA.
A USB Mini-B connector provides video and power connectivity. A separate GPIO connector supports general-purpose input and output integration. A USB cable shorter than 3.0 meters is recommended.
Imaging Controls
Available camera controls include brightness, contrast, hue, saturation, sharpness, gamma, white balance, backlight compensation, gain, flicker reduction, shutter, and slow shutter. Automatic white balance operates from 2800 K to 9500 K, while manual white balance operates from 2800 K to 6500 K.
Lens and Mounting Integration
The camera uses an adjustable-back-focus CS lens mount. Three fine-focus adjustment screws provide additional lens positioning. C-mount lenses can be installed using the optional 30CMA-R C-mount adapter.
Mounting holes for M2 fasteners are located on the top and bottom surfaces. Available integration accessories include the H003 USB cable holder and MS50 mini stand.
Operating Environment
The operating temperature range is -10°C to +50°C, with operating humidity below 95% RH without condensation. The WAT-03U2 is designed for indoor use and is not water-resistant or waterproof.
Downloads
and technical information for the WAT-03U2 USB 2.0 color camera.
and technical reference material for the WAT-03U2.
Specifications
| Specification | WAT-03U2 |
|---|---|
| Camera Type | USB 2.0 Color Camera |
| Image Sensor | 1/3-inch CMOS |
| Effective Pixels | 1305(H) × 977(V) |
| Unit Cell Size | 3.75 µm × 3.75 µm |
| Scanning | Progressive |
| Maximum Output | 1280 × 960 |
| HD Output | 1280 × 720 |
| Maximum Frame Rate | 60 fps at 640 × 480 |
| Minimum Illumination | 0.02 lx, F1.4, 1/30s, low-light compensation OFF, MJPG |
| Extended Low-Light | 0.005 lx, F1.4, 1/7.5s, low-light compensation ON, MJPG |
| Video Interface | USB Mini-B / USB Video Class compatible |
| Horizontal Resolution | More than 680 TVL (center, YUY2 output) |
| Lens Mount | CS-mount, adjustable back focus |
| Power | DC +5 V via USB bus |
| Power Consumption | 0.75 W / 150 mA |
| Operating Temperature | -10°C to +50°C |
| Dimensions | 32 × 32 × 23 mm |
| Weight | Approx. 35 g |
FAQ
What is the WAT-03U2?
The WAT-03U2 is a compact Watec USB 2.0 color camera with a 1/3-inch CMOS sensor, progressive scanning, selectable output sizes up to 1280 × 960, and USB bus power.
What resolutions does the WAT-03U2 support?
Available output sizes are 320 × 240, 640 × 480, 1280 × 720, and 1280 × 960. The camera supports 4:3 and 16:9 aspect ratios.
What is the maximum frame rate?
The maximum frame rate is 60 fps at 640 × 480 or 320 × 240 using MJPG. Resolutions of 1280 × 720 and 1280 × 960 support up to 30 fps.
Does the angle of view change at 60 fps?
Yes. At 60 fps, the camera outputs a cropped central portion of the image, producing a different angle of view from the other frame-rate modes.
How sensitive is the WAT-03U2 in low light?
Minimum illumination is 0.02 lx at F1.4 and 1/30 second with low-light compensation off. It extends to 0.005 lx at F1.4 and 1/7.5 second with low-light compensation on. Both measurements use MJPG output.
How is the WAT-03U2 powered?
The camera operates from 5 V DC supplied through the USB bus. Power consumption is 0.75 W at 150 mA.
What lens mount does the WAT-03U2 use?
The WAT-03U2 uses an adjustable-back-focus CS mount. An optional 30CMA-R adapter supports C-mount lenses.
What camera controls are available?
Available controls include brightness, contrast, hue, saturation, sharpness, gamma, white balance, backlight compensation, gain, flicker reduction, shutter, and slow shutter.
What operating systems have confirmed operation?
Operation has been confirmed with Windows 7, Windows 8, Windows 8.1, and Windows 10 in 32-bit and 64-bit versions.
Can the WAT-03U2 be used outdoors?
The WAT-03U2 is designed for indoor use and is not water-resistant or waterproof. Outdoor or outdoor-like installations require an appropriate outdoor camera housing.