The SVT™ dual-camera, dual-processor stereo vision system.

If your bot or other homebuilt device needs 3D vision, check out the Surveyor SVT™ : a dual-camera, dualprocessor Wi-Fi system geared for robotics, embedded image processing, and Web-based remote monitoring. Surveyor (www.surveyor.com) points to features including on-board programmability, Wi-Fi connectivity, easy sensor and actuator interface, open source architecture, and a list price of $550 as key attributes. You may note from the photo that the SVT employs Analog Devices’ Blackfin processors, which are designed for such things as multiformat audio, video, voice and image processing, etc. (details at www.ana log.com). According to Surveyor literature, the system takes “full advantage of the processor’s power efficiency, optimized video instructions, high speed video interface, and easy interface to peripheral devices.” It incorporates two BF537 32-bit Blackfins, two Omnivision OV9655 1.3 megapixel cameras, PWM motor control, various interfaces, and 3.3V and 5V regulation for battery operation. You also get a Lantronix Matchport 802.11bg radio, all of which takes up only a 2.5 x 6 x 2 inch volume and consumes less than 2W. Programming can be via Windows, Mac OS X, or Linux.