Knowledge Base

Problem

A user or institution wants to run EthoVision XT on a self-sourced or independently purchased PC rather than a Noldus-supplied system. They have questions about what hardware components must be retained or correctly specified, particularly regarding network cards for GigE cameras and PCIe slot compatibility.

Details

Symptom: Questions about PC compatibility, network adapter type, PCIe form factor, and whether third-party adapters (e.g., PCI-to-PCIe) are supported. Related concern: Whether Basler-branded PoE network cards are compatible. Affected: Any EthoVision XT version where the user is self-sourcing hardware. Note: PCI-to-PCIe adapters are not officially supported.

Solution

1. You are free to source your own PC, but it must meet or exceed the documented EthoVision XT hardware specifications (available from Noldus Support or the MyNoldus portal).
2. When migrating from an old PC to a new one, retain all physical components from the original system: USB license dongles AND the GigE network adapter cards (the specific network interface cards the cameras are plugged into).
3. The GigE network adapter must be a PCIe card. PCI-to-PCIe adapters are not officially supported or tested by Noldus; use at your own risk and without Noldus support if issues arise.
4. Basler-branded PoE GigE network interface cards (e.g., Basler GigE Interface Card 1-Port PoE) are acceptable alternatives, even if not directly tested by Noldus, and are not expected to cause compatibility issues.
5. Confirm the new PC has the correct PCIe slot type and form factor for the network card (full-height vs. low-profile; x1, x4, or x8 slot as required).
6. After installing EthoVision on the new PC, verify camera detection in Pylon Viewer before running experiments.
7. Match GPU specifications to EthoVision XT requirements, especially if using Deep Learning features.