Waveshare IMX291 2MP IR-CUT Camera for Raspberry Pi

First, ensure the Raspberry Pi's camera interface is enabled in the OS configuration (use 'sudo raspi-config'). Power down the Pi and connect the module's 15-pin FFC cable to the camera serial interface (CSI) port, ensuring the cable's contacts align with the port's connector. Boot the Pi and use commands like 'libcamera-hello' or 'raspistill' for the legacy stack to test the camera feed. The included opposite-orientation cable helps with physical mounting flexibility in different cases.

The IR-CUT filter is a mechanical switch that sits in front of the sensor. During daylight, it filters out infrared light to produce accurate, natural colors. In low-light or at night, it automatically retracts, allowing full infrared light to reach the sensor, which significantly improves monochrome image clarity under IR illumination. This dual-mode operation makes the module suitable for 24/7 surveillance applications without manual intervention.

Yes, it is fully compatible with Raspberry Pi Zero, Zero W, and Zero 2 W models. You will need to use the specific thinner 15-pin cable included for the Zero's smaller camera connector. The standard wider 15-pin cable is for the full-size CSI port on models like the Raspberry Pi 3, 4, or 5. Ensure the cable is firmly seated and the interface is enabled in software for proper functionality.

For modern Raspberry Pi OS versions (Bullseye and later), use the 'libcamera' software stack. Basic testing can be done with 'libcamera-hello' for a preview or 'libcamera-vid' to record video. For the legacy camera stack on older OS versions, you can use 'raspistill' for images and 'raspivid' for video. OpenCV can also be configured to access the camera stream for more advanced computer vision and AI processing projects on the Pi.