Knowledge Base

Problem

The DanioVision camera appears to not be detected by EthoVision XT, or the live video feed is completely black even though the camera is physically connected.

Details

Symptoms: EthoVision XT reports it cannot detect the camera, or the video stream is present but shows only a black image. After thorough investigation, the root cause is the camera lens aperture having been turned to its minimum (fully closed) position, blocking all light. This can be mistaken for a software or network detection error.

Solution

1. Before investigating software or network settings, physically inspect the camera lens on the DanioVision observation chamber.
2. Locate the aperture ring on the lens (typically the ring closest to the camera body).
3. Rotate the aperture ring to open the aperture (move away from the minimum/closed position toward a wider opening).
4. Check the live video feed in EthoVision XT — the image should now appear.
5. Adjust the aperture to achieve a well-exposed image of the plate.
6. If the image is still black after fully opening the aperture, proceed to investigate software/network causes as described in the related articles 'GigE Camera Connection Failure During DanioVision Setup' and 'Camera Connection Lost in Arena Settings'.