PrimeX 13W: Uncompromising Accuracy and Speed in Motion Tracking
Discover the PrimeX 13W, OptiTrack’s cutting-edge motion capture camera designed for professionals who demand exceptional precision and performance. Engineered for high-fidelity tracking in medium-sized environments, the PrimeX 13W delivers the speed, accuracy, and versatility needed for the most challenging applications, from intricate biomechanics research to immersive virtual reality experiences.

Seamless Integration with the OptiTrack Ecosystem
Motive 3D Motion Capture Software
Pair with OptiTrack’s powerful Motive software. Featuring intuitive tools like Trained Markersets, Continuous Calibration, and an advanced Skeletal Solver, Motive streamlines your workflow from initial setup to final data analysis.
Developer Tools: Camera SDK & NatNet SDK
For custom integrations and OEM applications, OptiTrack provides a free Camera SDK and NatNet SDK. This C/C++ interface offers extensive control, including access to raw camera frames, image processing modes, 2D object data, camera synchronization, and all 3D data.
System Flexibility: Mix and Match Cameras
Create the optimal modular mocap system. The PrimeX 13W can be seamlessly combined with other PrimeX or Prime Color cameras, allowing for custom configurations tailored to your specific tracking volume and accuracy requirements.
Synchronization and Connectivity: eSync 2
Achieve professional-grade synchronization with the eSync 2 hub. It supports Genlock sync, Timecode synchronization, and external sync in/out, ensuring your PrimeX 13W cameras integrate flawlessly into complex production pipelines.
Applications: Where the PrimeX 13W Excels
Animation and Visual Effects (VFX)
Capture nuanced performances and complex movements with exceptional fidelity. The PrimeX 13W provides the clean, accurate data essential for bringing digital characters and immersive virtual worlds to life in film, television, and gaming.Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR)
Create truly immersive and interactive experiences. The camera’s low latency and high accuracy enable seamless tracking of users and objects, crucial for realistic and responsive VR/AR applications in training, simulation, and entertainment.Biomechanics and Human Movement Science
Analyse human motion with scientific rigour. From sports performance analysis and ergonomic studies to rehabilitation research, the PrimeX 13W delivers the precise tracking needed to understand the intricacies of movement and develop data-driven solutions.Engineering and Manufacturing
Optimise designs, validate simulations, and improve manufacturing processes. Use the PrimeX 13W for tasks such as dimensional analysis, deformation tracking, and ergonomic assessments in industrial environments.Technical Specification
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Resolution | 1.3 MP (1280 x 1024) |
| Native Frame Rate | 240 FPS |
| Max Frame Rate | 1000 FPS (with windowing) |
| 3D Accuracy | +/- 0.20 mm |
| Latency | 4.2 ms |
| Passive Markers | 16 m (55 ft) |
| Active Markers | 25 m (85 ft) |
| Lens | Stock: 5.5 mm F#1.8 (Fast Glass, wide band AR coated) Optional: 8.0 mm F#1.8 |
| Horizontal Field of View (FOV) | Stock Lens (5.5mm): 56° Optional Lens (8.0mm): 42° |
| Vertical Field of View (FOV) | Stock Lens (5.5mm): 46° Optional Lens (8.0mm): 34° |
| Filter | Software-selectable Filter Switcher: 800nm (IR) / 700nm (Visible) Standard: 850nm band-pass filter |
| Shutter Type | Global Shutter |
| Shutter Speed | Default: 0.25 ms Minimum: 0.01 ms Maximum (at 240 FPS): 3.9 ms |
| Image Processing Types | Object, Segment, Raw Grayscale, MJPEG Grayscale |
| Dimensions (W x H x D) | 2.7 in x 2.7 in x 2.1 in (6.86 cm x 6.86 cm x 5.46 cm) |
| Weight | 0.7 lbs (0.32 kg) |
| Camera Body Material | Sculpted Aluminium and Polycarbonate |
| Mounting | 2x 1/4”-20 tripod threads |
| Status Indicators | 2-digit numeric LEDs, Full-colour LED health and activity indicator |
| Number of LEDs | 10 |
| LED Type | Ultra High Power |
| Wavelength | 850 nm Infrared (IR) |
| Features | Strobe mode, Intensity control |
| Data Interface | GigE (Gigabit Ethernet) |
| Power | PoE (Power over Ethernet) |
| Camera Synchronisation | Ethernet |
| Software | Motive:Body, Motive:Tracker, Motive:Edit |
| SDK | Camera SDK, NatNet SDK |
Frequently Asked Questions
The PrimeX 13W is a high-precision motion capture camera ideal for a variety of professional applications. Effective in medium-sized capture areas where high accuracy and speed are essential. You’ll find it used in fields like animation and visual effects (VFX), biomechanics research, the development of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) systems, robotics, and engineering analysis.
The PrimeX 13W distinguishes itself with its excellent accuracy (typically around +/- 0.20 mm), a high native frame rate of 240 frames per second (which can go up to 1000 FPS), and quality components like its “fast glass” M12 lens for superior data. Features discreet tracking thanks to its invisible 850nm infrared illumination, incorporates on-board image processing. Includes user-friendly elements such as a software-selectable filter switcher and the benefits of continuous calibration.
Yes, it’s very well suited for that. Its native 240 FPS capture rate, capability to reach up to 1000 FPS, and its global shutter mean it can record quick and intricate movements with minimal blur and excellent detail.
The PrimeX 13W is designed to accurately track both active (self-illuminating) and passive (reflective) markers, giving you flexibility based on your project’s specific needs and the capture environment.
The PrimeX 13W operates using 850nm infrared illumination. Although it’s built to perform reliably in diverse conditions, you’ll consequently achieve the best results by minimising other strong sources of infrared light within the capture area. Furthermore, the camera’s software-selectable filter switcher also provides adaptability, thereby allowing you to choose between IR and visible spectrum imaging to suit different lighting scenarios.
OptiTrack systems, including those using PrimeX 13W cameras, are generally designed for a reasonably straightforward setup. Features like aim assist, easily accessible lens controls, and OptiTrack’s Motive software (which includes Continuous Calibration) help to simplify the setup and calibration. While the initial setup does require careful attention, the system is engineered to maintain its calibration over time.
The PrimeX 13W is primarily intended for use with OptiTrack’s own Motive software suite (including Motive:Body, Motive:Tracker, and Motive:Edit). For those looking to develop custom applications or integrate the cameras into OEM systems, OptiTrack also offers a Camera SDK and the NatNet SDK.
The PrimeX 13W can be used in controlled outdoor settings. Direct sunlight can introduce a lot of infrared noise, which might affect performance. OptiTrack does offer other solutions specifically designed for outdoor use so for any outdoor applications, it’s a good idea to discuss your specific needs with an OptiTrack specialist or a local distributor like Tracklab here in Australia.
For passive markers, the PrimeX 13W generally has a range of up to 16 metres (or 55 feet). With active markers, this range can extend to about 25 metres (or 85 feet). Keep in mind that the actual effective range can be influenced by factors like marker size, the surrounding environment, and camera settings.
If you’re in Australia and need more detailed information, want to see a demonstration, or are looking to purchase the PrimeX 13W, you can get in touch with Freedspace/Tracklab. They are the local distributor for OptiTrack products, based in Yarraville, Victoria, and can offer expert advice and support. Their contact details are available on their website.
Learn More or Request a Quote
Ready to elevate your motion capture capabilities? Contact our sales team today to learn more about the PrimeX 13W, discuss your project needs, or request a personalised quote.
Email us at info@tracklab.com.au Talk to an expert today 03 7018 2121.

