Arducam 2MP Mini SPI Camera Module for Arduino & Raspberry Pi Pico

Connect the module's SPI pins (SCK, MISO, MOSI, CS) to the UNO's corresponding SPI pins (D13, D12, D11, D10). Connect VCC to 5V, GND to GND, and SDA/SCL for I2C if needed. Install the Arducam library via the Arduino IDE Library Manager or by manually adding the downloaded library folder. Use the provided example sketches to initialize the camera and capture images, ensuring you select the correct board and COM port in the IDE before uploading.

Yes, the module is fully compatible with 3.3V systems. Its I/O ports are 5V/3.3V tolerant, meaning you can directly connect it to the Pico's GPIO pins without a logic level shifter. Ensure you power the module's VCC pin with 5V as specified, but the communication lines (SPI, I2C) will safely interface with the Pico's 3.3V logic levels. Use the appropriate Raspberry Pi Pico Arduino core or MicroPython libraries to handle the SPI communication and image data processing.

The module's lens holder accepts standard M12 (S-mount) or CS-mount lenses. You can use various focal length lenses (e.g., wide-angle, telephoto) depending on your application. For IR-sensitive imaging, pair the module with an IR-pass lens. Ensure the lens thread matches the mount (M12 has a 12mm thread, CS-mount has a 1" diameter thread) and that the lens's flange back distance is suitable for the sensor to achieve proper focus, typically adjusted via the lens's focus ring.

The module operates from a 5V supply. Active current draw depends on the operating mode (e.g., image capture, streaming). The OV2640 sensor supports a low-power sleep mode which significantly reduces consumption when not capturing. For precise battery life calculations in IoT deployments, measure the current during your specific capture cycle (including SPI activity) using a multimeter. The open-source library provides functions to put the sensor into sleep mode between captures to conserve energy.