Vision Research, a leading manufacturer of digital high-speed imaging systems, announces the release of its Phantom Miro C321 Air high-speed camera for airborne testing applications. This 2-megapixel camera leverages the rugged and field-proven design of the Phantom Miro C321 vehicle crash test camera to meet manned and unmanned airborne testing requirements. Specifically, its high frame rates and many advanced imaging features expand testing opportunities while offering unparalleled data security and meeting strict specifications related to environmental durability, EMI and avionics power.

The C321 Air achieves 1,480 frames per second (fps) at full HD (1920 x 1080) resolution and up to 94,000 fps at reduced resolutions. Because airborne tests often require lower frame rates, it unlocks additional testing opportunities for researchers while providing detailed, higher-quality images. The new camera also features a 10-micron pixel size for high sensitivity, low noise and high dynamic range to capture critical test events with minimal motion blur.

“We’re thrilled to introduce the Phantom C321 Air to the airborne testing community,” says Kevin Gann, Vice President of Research and Development at Vision Research. "Our customers in the defense and aerospace fields need to conduct critical stores separation tests in demanding environments. As the high-speed camera market leader, Vision Research has the reputation, experience and knowledge to provide a differentiated camera that meets the most stringent demands of the airborne environment.”

The C321 Air satisfies aerospace-specific specifications including one of the most difficult tests, the vibe test (MIL-STD 810H, Method 514.8, Category 12 (Jet), up to 26 Grms). The camera is also temperature tested to -55 ̊C, includes conformal-coated boards to protect against humidity and offers a removable CFast solid- state drive (SSD), secured with a double-action latching door. Users can download shots to the flash in-flight, saving multiple captures from a mission.

Key Specifications of the Phantom C321 Air

-Small, compact form factor
-HD resolution (1920 x 1080)


-Throughput: 3 Gpx/s image capture
-Max frame rate at full resolution: 1,480 fps

-Max frame rate at reduced resolution: 94,000 fps

-Operational temperature range: -55 ̊ to +50 ̊C
-Programmable I/O to easily configure signals


-Designed to meet MIL-STD 810H, 704 and 461 standards (complete testing pending)

-16GB RAM with memory partitioning capabilities


-CFast and auto-save features for securely storing multiple shots

About Vision Research

Vision Research is a leading manufacturer of high-speed digital imaging systems that are indispensable across a wide variety of applications, including defense, automotive, engineering, science, medical research, industrial manufacturing, packaging, and digital cinematography.

The Wayne, N.J.-based company designs and manufactures the most comprehensive range of digital high- speed cameras available today, all of which deliver unsurpassed light-sensitivity, image resolution, acquisition speed and image quality.

Over the course of its 60+ year history, Vision Research has earned numerous awards in recognition of its innovations in high-speed digital camera technology and sensor design, including a technical Emmy and an Academy Award®. Vision Research digital high-speed cameras add a new dimension to the sense of sight, allowing the user to see details of an event when it’s too fast to see, and too important not toTM.

Vision Research is a business of AMETEK Inc., a leading global provider of industrial technology solutions serving a diverse set of attractive niche markets with annual sales over $6.0 billion.