Camera Module (CM)
Each DiMAC Camera Module is a complete, independent assembly that acquires one color image via one color CCD through one lens. It consists of the area Bayer-filter CCD (8984 x 6732 effective pixels per CCD) packaged within a PhaseOne digital back, the patented piezo-driven forward motion compensation actuator (allowing flight speeds of up to 280 knots), the lens assembly (flexible configuration allowing for lens options from 47mm to 210mm), the electro mechanical shutter and the optical filters (either RGB or IRC).

Cylindrical Camera Frames (CCF) or Camera Frame (CF)
The DiMACLiIGHT+ and WiDE+ full-sized Cylindrical Camera Frame (CCF) houses from 1 to 4 Camera Modules (CMs) within a carbon-fiber frame that fits into most existing aerial camera mounts. The DiMAC ULTRALiGHT+ reduced-size CF houses a single CM and can be mounted within a smaller gyro mount. Either Frame provides the optimal operational environment for the CMs, with integrated thermal and high-frequency vibrational isolation. In addition, the enclosure contains a rigid support for any industry standard IMU device (not provided or required), allowing for optimal placement of the IMU relative to the area CCD sensor.

IT Rack (ITR) or IT Cube (ITC)
The IT system is the interface, control and storage system that drives the operation of the DiMAC on-board the aircraft. The IT Rack or IT Cube consists of 1 to 5 on-board computers that provide a straightforward user interface as well as image acquisition and storage. A touch-panel console allows camera operators to operate the DiMAC without being immediately next ITR / ITC. In addition, an FMC Control Board provides continual updates on required motion compensation for each camera exposure via ground sample distance (GSD), shutter speed and ground speed data acquired through a direct connection with the Flight Management Software (compatible with all industry standard systems).

Normal flight planning and aerial operation
The DiMAC WiDE+ provides a large ground coverage footprint of 13,000 by 8,900 pixels (achieved through the use of 2 adjacent Camera Modules). This results in a swath width equivalent or bigger than a standard film-based aerial camera. DiMAC ULTRALiGHT+ and DiMAC LiGHT+ configurations provide a medium format footprint with less coverage per frame. The piezo-driven forward motion compensation that moves CCD during capture to a positional tolerance of several nanometers allows for flight speeds that far exceed normal aircraft operational requirements. Flight planning and operation with the DiMAC is similar to industry standard operational practices.

In-flight preview of actual imagery
As a result of the mechanical forward motion compensation that acts directly on the CCD during image capture and the use of a color CCD to acquire color imagery, actual image frames are available during flight for preview by the camera operator. In-flight image preview allows for the best possible setup and adjustment of image acquisition parameters, ensuring optimal capture regardless of environmental or operational factors. In addition, the preview of motion-compensated color imagery ensures that no flight time is spent without ensuring that output is being acquired from the DiMAC.

Simple and reliable data storage
DiMAC imagery is stored directly onto 500 Gb removable hard drives. Hard drives are pressurized and ruggedized to operate at altitudes of 80,000 feet and to withstand shock impact of over 35 G each. Individual drives can be shipped back to the office from remote field locations. Drive capacity exceeds the total possible size of storage required for over a day of flying, ensuring continuous uninterrupted daily operation.

Conversion of camera data from raw to tiff format
The DiMAC acquires imagery in 48-bit color raw frames, which are converted to tiff output (either 8-bits or 16-bits per channel). During conversion, significant radiometric adjustment can be performed with no additional processing time required. As a result of the true color, complete frame data capture, DiMAC image processing is minimal and requires less than 1 minute per frame.

Direct utilization of imagery within existing software
DiMAC imagery can be imported directly into all industry-standard AT and softcopy software packages currently on the market. Utilization of DiMAC imagery does not require the use of proprietary photogrammetric software packages, but rather allows you to work in your current environments.