Alvium GM2 series GMSL2™ Interface camera modules

GMSL2 is a high-speed serial interface that transports MIPI CSI-2 camera data over much longer distances than standard CSI-2 ribbon connections. In the Alvium GM2 series, it enables reliable image transmission over coaxial cable runs up to 15 metres or STP cable runs up to 8 metres with minimal latency. This makes it ideal for remote camera placement, distributed embedded vision systems, and installations exposed to electrical noise.

Alvium GM2 cameras support coaxial cables and shielded twisted pair (STP) cables. Coax versions with FAKRA connectors support runs up to 15 metres, while STP versions with HSD connectors support up to 8 metres. Coax is typically preferred for static installations, while STP is better suited to applications involving movement or tighter bend radii.

The primary difference is the connector and cable type. FAKRA coax models are optimised for long, robust, static cable runs and offer the maximum reach. HSD STP models are more flexible and better suited to moving systems such as robotic arms or cable chains. Camera performance remains equivalent, so the choice depends mainly on the mechanical and routing requirements of the application.

Yes. Alvium GM2 cameras support single-cable operation, where the same cable carries both data and power. In coax configurations this is commonly referred to as Power over Coax (PoC). This simplifies system wiring and is especially useful in compact, mobile, or distributed embedded vision designs.

The series spans 0.3 MP to 24.6 MP and includes both global shutter and rolling shutter CMOS sensors. In addition to standard visible-light models, the range also includes versions for UV, NIR, and SWIR imaging. This broad sensor portfolio allows the GM2 family to address everything from fast motion capture to ultra-high-resolution inspection and specialised spectral imaging.

Depending on the model, Alvium GM2 cameras are available with C-Mount, CS-Mount, or S-Mount (M12) lens interfaces. This gives designers flexibility to choose between standard industrial optics and more compact embedded lenses based on sensor size, image quality, and enclosure constraints.

Yes. Each camera provides 2 programmable GPIO lines that can be used for trigger input, output signalling, or synchronisation tasks. This supports precise hardware triggering and makes the series well suited to multi-camera systems, stereo vision, 3D imaging, and inspection setups requiring coordinated acquisition.

Because Alvium GM2 cameras transmit data over GMSL2, they require a compatible deserializer board on the host side to convert the signal back to MIPI CSI-2. These boards connect the camera via coax or STP and present a standard CSI-2 interface to the processing platform. For multi-camera systems, deserializer boards with multiple inputs are typically used.

The cameras support GenICam-based control on CSI-2 platforms and are also compatible with Video4Linux2 (V4L2). Open-source driver support simplifies integration with embedded Linux systems and common development workflows using frameworks such as OpenCV or GStreamer. This makes the series suitable for a wide range of embedded vision platforms.

Yes. The series is designed with a closed industrial housing, rugged locking connectors, EMC compliance, and resistance to shock and vibration. With an operating housing temperature range of –20 °C to +65 °C, Alvium GM2 cameras are well suited to demanding factory, mobile, and vehicle-adjacent environments where reliability is essential.