System Requirements for PhotoRobot

The following documentation describes the system requirements, required hardware specifications, and recommended computers to run PhotoRobot Controls Application. This includes information on computer compatibility, USB cables, and suitable barcode scanners. In order to run PhotoRobot Controls Application, your computer and equipment must meet these technical specifications, outlined below.

‍Note: PhotoRobot Controls Application is a cross-platform software to provide a consistent experience on macOS and Windows operating systems. However, Apple-based systems are recommended for optimal performance and stability with PhotoRobot software.

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Operating System Compatibility

PhotoRobot Controls Application is available for the following versions of the operating systems:

• macOS 11 BigSur
• macOS 12 Monterey
• macOS 13 Ventura
• macOS 14 Sonoma
• macOS 15 Sequoia
• macOS Tahoe 26
• Windows 10 - 64bit
• Windows 11

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Recommended Hardware

MacOS

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Windows

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Networking

PhotoRobot is delivered with its own subnet, connected to the customer’s network. Internet connection is required.

The minimum recommended speed to the internet is 20/20 Mbps - for Cloud and Hybrid subscriptions.

The following services / ports need to be open to the internet:

• TCP, 443 (https), outbound
• TCP, 80 (http), outbound
• UDP, 53 (dns), inbound, outbound
• ICMP (ping), recommended

Access to these servers on the Internet is required:

• *.photorobot.com - Required PhotoRobot Cloud services
• as-unirobot.azurewebsites.net - Activation server for PhotoRobots, callhome service function

For technical documentation on network configuration, refer to PhotoRobot Detailed Networking Prerequisites.

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Recommended Computers

The following Apple-based systems are recommended for optimal performance and stability, with options varying based on different size screens.

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• MacBook Air / Pro 15” / 16” (Excellent Portability)

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• iMac 24” (Reasonable price, all-in-one solution)

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• Mac Mini (Reasonable price, 3rd party screens available)

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All of the above computers perfectly meet PhotoRobot’s technical requirements. Detailed specifications then depend on expected cloud or local storage and processing. In general, an optimal choice will offer 16 - 32 GB RAM, and 256 - 512 GB SSD. Note:

• There is no need to use additional processor cores, making it better to invest in a higher frequency.
• Other models may lead to issues, due to the screen being too small in size (13” MacBook Air, 14” MacBook Pro). 
• The high-performance Mac Studio is a great choice for the reconstruction of Photogrammetry 3D models.

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Compatible Computers and USB Cables

The PhotoRobot _Controls Drivers to connect cameras, robots, and lights support both macOS and Windows systems. However, for technical reasons and greater compatibility, PhotoRobot recommends using a MAC system for this purpose.

Although image processing takes place in the cloud, it is appropriate that the computers intended for image processing are equipped with an SSD (or Fusion Drive) and a graphics card allowing GPU utilization.

For computers that are not intended for image processing, any operating system with a modern web browser (we recommend Chrome) can be used.

When using multiple cameras at one workplace (working simultaneously – e.g. with a MultiCam system), it is not recommended to use a USB HUB. Instead, we recommend connecting cameras directly to the USB ports of the computer. If it is necessary to connect more cameras than there are computer ports (for example, the recommended iMac usually has 4), it is advisable to use (high-quality) hubs to connect up to 2 cameras per port. Otherwise, the camera USB bus overloads, and the system is unreliable. Note: Please always use high-quality USB cables with a 5-meter length maximum.

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Suitable Barcode Scanners

It is possible to use suitable barcode scanners with PhotoRobot systems to:

• Automatically insert the product code into its label in PhotoRobot _Controls;
• Trigger a photo sequence.

In general, barcode readers can be divided into wired and wireless devices. Wired barcode readers connect to the USB of the computer, and are limited by the cable length (typically between 2 and 5 m). Wireless readers have either a USB-powered base in which they are charged or wireless connection to a computer via a proprietary USB dongle. In an ideal environment with no obstructions and direct visibility, the range of wireless scanners is up to 100 m. In practice, however, we recommend you to account for a range of 10 - 15 meters depending on the environment (obstacles, direct visibility, electromagnetic interference, etc).

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Recommended Barcode Scanners

The following barcode scanner models have been tested in practice by PhotoRobot, and are mechanically and electrically suitable.

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• Virtuos HW-855A - 2D (Tested and in Use by PhotoRobot)
• Barcode reader for 1D and 2D codes (great for QR)
• Handheld scanner with cordless data transfer and a charging cradle
• Fast reading (60 characters per second) with greater sensitivity for reading corrupted codes or codes on screens
• User-replaceable battery (type 18650)

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• Motorola LS2208 (Tested by PhotoRobot)
• Barcode reader for 1D codes 
• Permanent connection of USB reader to computer is necessary
• Suitable for fast-paced environments, the device is rugged and tested to withstand drops
• Tempered glass window with scratch resistance that retains good readability

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• Honeywell Voyager 1202g Station (Tested by PhotoRobot)
• Base connected to a computer via USB; scanner communication with base via Bluetooth 
• Scanning of all standard 1D barcodes possible 10 meters from base
• Long battery life with 12 hours of reliable operation thanks to Li-Ion battery
• Quick battery replacement without the need for tools
• Automatic interface configuration and able to read even low-quality barcodes – including damaged or blurry codes
• Feature for quickly finding a reader at the press of a button on the base – the reader responds with beeps and flashes

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Other Barcode Scanner Models (Not Tested by PhotoRobot)

For examples of other barcode scanner models (not tested by PhotoRobot), there is the Birch BZ-R01, or the Birch BS-115. Note: The declared parameters of these models comply with PhotoRobot requirements, but the models themselves have not been tested in operation with PhotoRobot. These models are thus for example purposes only, and should be discussed with a PhotoRobot specialist technician for consideration if required by the customer.

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• Birch BZ-R01 (not tested in operation with PhotoRobot)
• Wireless CCD barcode scanner
• “EZ Pair” technology for scanning barcodes up to a distance of 100 meters from the computer – however, with distance influenced by the environment

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• Birch BS-115 (not tested in operation with PhotoRobot)
• Handheld laser barcode scanner
• Connection to computer via USB cable
• Recognition of all standard 1D barcodes
• Affordable model

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Recommended Cameras

When choosing a new camera for a PhotoRobot system, refer to the complete list of Recommended Cameras for PhotoRobot Systems. This guide aims to help customers choose the best recommended camera or cameras for long-term use with their PhotoRobot.

Important: It is always advisable to first contact PhotoRobot before purchasing a new camera for your system. Also, be aware that only the latest mirrorless Canon camera models are recommended for automated photography.

Although, as of the release of PhotoRobot Controls App 2.5.4, there is support for any camera through third-party camera integration. However, note that the use of compatible handheld cameras over Wi-Fi or cable connection may still cause issues. Issues include frequent disconnections (primarily due to timeout), and complications with cable or connection lengths. If using an iPhone camera via PhotoRobot Touch though, no issues arise. To check the compatibility of all supported Canon and 3rd party camera models, see PhotoRobot Compatible Cameras for reference.

Note: To better understand the impact of camera resolution and lens selection, refer to PhotoRobot’s Guide on Understanding Camera Resolution. For user support on setting up and connecting a compatible camera, refer to the support manual PhotoRobot Camera Configuration.