General Prompting Tips
Get better results from the AI SDK Assistant by following these best practices when asking questions about the Camera Remote SDK.Be Specific with Context
Include relevant details in your questions to get more accurate answers:
- Camera model (e.g., “ILX-LR1”, “ILCE-7M4”, “A7 IV”)
- SDK version (V1.14.00 or V2.00.00)
- Programming language (C++ or C#)
- Connection type (USB, wired LAN, wireless LAN)
- Operating system (Windows, macOS, Linux)
- Connection mode (RemoteControlMode, ContentsTransferMode, RemoteTransferMode)
- ❌ Vague: “How do I connect to a camera?”
- ✅ Specific: “How do I connect to an ILX-LR1 camera via wired LAN using the C++ SDK V2.00.00 on Windows in RemoteControlMode?”
Use Exact Terminology When Known
If you already know specific API names, error codes, or property codes, include them in your query for faster, more precise results. Examples:- “What parameters does
SetSaveInfoaccept?” - “What causes error code
CrError_Connect_TimeOut?” - “How do I use
CrDeviceProperty_FNumberto set aperture?”
Ask for Code Examples
The AI SDK Assistant has access to working C++ and C# code examples from the SDK. Don’t hesitate to request them. Example prompts:- “Show me C++ code to capture an image and save it to the host”
- “Give me a C# example of connecting to a camera with SSH authentication”
- “What’s the code for setting ISO sensitivity in C++?”
Request Compatibility Information
Check which cameras support specific features before implementation. Example prompts:- “Which cameras support RemoteTransferMode?”
- “Does the ILX-LR1 support wireless LAN connection?”
- “What connection modes are available for the ILCE-1?”
Iterate and Follow Up
If the first answer isn’t quite right, ask follow-up questions or rephrase with more details. Example:- Initial: “How do I set camera properties?”
- Follow-up: “How do I set F-stop specifically? Do I need to check if it’s writable first?”
- Clarification: “Show me the complete code including error handling”
When and How to Use AI SDK Assistant
Automatic Tool Selection
The AI SDK Assistant uses 13+ specialized search tools to find the best answers for your questions. Your AI assistant automatically chooses the right tool based on what you’re asking.You don’t need to specify which tool to use—just ask your question naturally. AI SDK Assistant’s AI will determine whether to search documentation, code examples, API references, compatibility tables, or error codes.
Available Search Capabilities
The AI SDK Assistant can search across:- 📖 Documentation: Tutorials, guides, workflows, and conceptual explanations
- 🔧 API Functions: Function signatures, parameters, return types
- 💻 Code Examples: Working C++ and C# implementations
- 📊 Compatibility Tables: Camera models, features, connection types
- ⚠️ Error & Warning Codes: Detailed error explanations and solutions
SDK Version Switching
The AI SDK Assistant currently searches SDK V2.00.00 by default. If you need information from V1.14.00, just specify it in your question. Example:- “In SDK V1.14.00, how do I initialize the SDK?”
- “What’s the difference between V1.14.00 and V2.00.00 for camera connection?”
set_sdk_version tool to switch versions during the conversation if needed.
When AI SDK Assistant Searches Automatically
Your AI assistant will automatically use AI SDK Assistant when you ask questions about:- Camera Remote SDK features and capabilities
- How to implement specific SDK operations
- API function usage and parameters
- Debugging errors or understanding warnings
- Camera compatibility and requirements
- SDK code examples and patterns
Starter Prompts
Use these prompt templates as starting points for different stages of SDK development. Each category addresses a specific phase of your implementation journey.1. CrSDK Overview
Purpose: Understand general SDK capabilities, requirements, and use casesGeneral Capabilities
General Capabilities
Prompt:What AI SDK Assistant Returns:
- Comprehensive list of SDK capabilities and operations
- System requirements for all supported platforms
- Camera control functions and property management APIs
Main Capabilities:Use when: You’re just getting started and need a high-level overviewSystem Requirements:
- Image Capture: Control shutter release with
SendCommand(CrCommandId_Release)for single and continuous shooting- Camera Properties: Get/Set ISO, aperture (F-number), shutter speed, focus mode, white balance via
GetDeviceProperties()andSetDeviceProperty()- Live View: Stream real-time preview images with
GetLiveViewImage()for on-screen display- File Management: Transfer captured images to host PC with
SetSaveInfo()andStillImageStoreDestinationproperty- Focus & Zoom: Control autofocus area, manual focus position, and motorized zoom operations
Basic Workflow:
- Windows: Windows 10 64-bit, Windows 11 64-bit
- Linux: Ubuntu 22.04 LTS, Ubuntu 24.04 LTS (PC and ARMv8)
- macOS: macOS 13.1+ (Ventura), 14+ (Sonoma), 15+ (Sequoia)
Init()→EnumCameraObjects()→Connect()→GetDeviceProperties()→ control operations →Disconnect()→Release()
Camera Support
Camera Support
Prompt:What AI SDK Assistant Returns:
- Complete list of supported camera models by category
- Connection type support matrix for each camera
- SDK mode availability (RemoteControl, ContentsTransfer, RemoteTransfer)
- Special requirements and limitations per model
Supported Camera Models in SDK V2.00.00: Cinema Line:Use when: Evaluating if the SDK supports your target camerasAlpha Series:
- ILX-LR1, ILME-FX6 (Ver.3.00+), MPC-2610
Connection Support by Model:
- ILCE-1, ILCE-9M3, ILCE-7RM5, ILCE-7M4, ILCE-7RM4A, ILCE-7SM3, ILCE-7C, ILCE-7CR, and more
Legend: R=RemoteControlMode, C=ContentsTransferMode, T=RemoteTransferMode For complete compatibility tables with all models, see Function List documentation.
Model USB Wired LAN Wireless LAN Notes ILX-LR1 ✓ R/C/T ✓ R/C/T ✓ R/C/T SSH auth required, USB-C to GigE adapter ILCE-1 ✓ R/C/T ✓ R/C/T ✓ R/C/T All modes supported ILCE-7RM4A ✓ R/C ✗ ✗ USB only, no network
Connection Types
Connection Types
Prompt:What AI SDK Assistant Returns:
- Detailed comparison of all physical connection types
- Performance characteristics and use case recommendations
- Hardware requirements for each connection type
- Connection mode compatibility per physical layer
Physical Connection Types: 1. USB ConnectionUse when: Planning your hardware and connection strategy2. Wired LAN (Ethernet)
- Interface: Direct USB cable (Type-C or Micro-USB depending on camera)
- Pros: Most stable, highest bandwidth, no network configuration needed
- Cons: Limited cable length (~5m), tethered operation only
- Best for: Studio setups, direct PC control, maximum reliability
3. Wireless LAN (Wi-Fi)
- Interface: RJ45 network cable (cameras may need USB-C to Ethernet adapter)
- Pros: Stable, long-distance capable (100m+), network integration
- Cons: Requires network setup, some cameras need adapters, may require SSH pairing
- Best for: Fixed installations, multi-camera systems, industrial applications
Connection Modes by Physical Layer:
- Interface: Built-in Wi-Fi (camera creates access point or joins network)
- Pros: No cables, portable, flexible positioning
- Cons: Lower bandwidth, potential interference, not all cameras support all modes
- Cons: Linux ARMv7/ARMv8 SDK versions don’t support wireless
- Best for: Mobile applications, temporary setups, on-location shooting
Important: Check camera compatibility table—not all cameras support all modes on all connection types.
- RemoteControlMode (R): Real-time camera control - Available on all connection types
- ContentsTransferMode (C): File transfer only - Added in SDK v1.05.00
- RemoteTransferMode (T): Control + auto file transfer - Added in SDK v1.13.00
SDK Versions
SDK Versions
Prompt:What AI SDK Assistant Returns:
- Key differences between SDK versions
- New features and capabilities in each version
- Breaking changes and migration considerations
- Recommendation for new projects
SDK Version Comparison: V2.00.00 (Latest - Recommended for New Projects)Use when: Deciding which SDK version to adoptV1.14.00 (Stable Legacy)
- Status: Latest stable release, actively maintained
- New Camera Support: Additional camera models including latest Alpha and Cinema Line cameras
- New Features: Enhanced property controls, additional device properties
- Compatibility: Full backward compatibility with V1.14.00 cameras
Key Differences:
- Status: Stable, mature codebase
- Use Case: Existing projects that don’t need latest features
- Camera Support: Broad support for Alpha 7/9 series and earlier Cinema Line
- ContentsTransferMode: Added in v1.05.00
- RemoteTransferMode: Added in v1.13.00
Recommendation: Use V2.00.00 for all new projects to ensure latest camera support and future compatibility.
- V2.00.00 supports newer camera models released after V1.14.00
- V2.00.00 includes additional device property codes and commands
- API compatibility maintained—migration typically requires minimal code changes
- DLL/library files must be updated when switching versions (rebuild required)
2. Workflow Planning
Purpose: Connect your use case to SDK operations, APIs, and requirementsReal-World Use Case Example
Real-World Use Case Example
Prompt:What AI SDK Assistant Returns:
- ILX-LR1 compatibility details and requirements
- API recommendations for property management and capture
- Connection workflow with pairing instructions
- Code examples for device properties and image capture
Complete Workflow for Your Use Case:
- SSH authentication required (username: “admin”)
- USB Type-C to Gigabit Ethernet adapter recommended
- Supports all connection modes: RemoteControlMode, ContentsTransferMode, RemoteTransferMode
- Maximum 5 simultaneous connections supported
1. SDK Initialization & Connection:Use when: You have a specific application and need to map it to SDK operations2. Camera Pairing (First Time):3. Configure Save Destination (Host Only):
- Set camera to: Network > Cnct./Remote Sht. > Remote Shoot Function > Pairing
- Call
Connect()from your app- Accept pairing on camera
- Power cycle camera (wait 10+ seconds) to save pairing info
4. Set Camera Properties (F-stop, ISO, etc.):5. Timelapse Capture Loop (Every 1 Second):Recommended Connection: Wired LAN (Ethernet) for reliable continuous operation during flight
Feature-Specific Workflow
Feature-Specific Workflow
Prompt:What AI SDK Assistant Returns:
- Complete step-by-step operation guides with API sequences
- Timing considerations and camera state requirements
- Prerequisites and property dependencies
Prerequisites:Use when: Implementing a specific SDK featureWorkflow:
- Camera must be connected in RemoteControlMode
- Check
CrDeviceProperty_LiveViewStatusis supported- Camera may not accept operations immediately after connection—wait for
OnConnected()callbackImportant Notes:
- Network traffic affects stability; avoid simultaneous heavy operations
- Image data is retrieved from internal buffer updated by background task
- Camera Remote SDK does not support “Enlarge Screen” mode—disable it on camera
Multi-Camera Setup
Multi-Camera Setup
Prompt:What AI SDK Assistant Returns:
- Multi-camera connection limits and constraints
- Architecture patterns for multi-camera control
- Device handle management strategies
- Callback handling for multiple cameras
Multi-Camera Limitations:Use when: Building multi-camera control systemsRecommended Architecture:
- Per Camera: Maximum 5 simultaneous connections from different hosts/applications
- Per Host PC: No SDK-imposed limit on number of cameras (limited by system resources)
- Connection Completion: Connection isn’t complete until
OnConnected()callback is received- Exceeded Limit:
Connect()fails with error if camera already has 5 connectionsBest Practices:
- Use separate callback objects or camera identifiers to distinguish events from different cameras
- Implement thread-safe queue for handling callbacks from multiple cameras
- Consider network bandwidth when using multiple cameras over LAN
- For time-synchronized capture, account for network latency variations
- Properly clean up each device handle with
Disconnect()beforeRelease()
3. System Design
Purpose: Plan APIs, dependencies, hardware, and architectureAPI Selection
API Selection
Prompt:What AI SDK Assistant Returns:
- Complete list of required and optional APIs
- Function signatures with parameter descriptions
- Call order and dependencies
Minimal API Set for Basic Camera Control: Required (Core Operations):Use when: Determining which APIs your application needsCamera Property Management:
Init()- Initialize SDK at application startEnumCameraObjects()- Discover connected camerasConnect(pCameraInfo, callback, &deviceHandle, mode)- Establish camera connectionDisconnect(deviceHandle)- Close camera connectionRelease()- Cleanup SDK resources at application endImage Capture:
GetDeviceProperties(deviceHandle, &propList, &count)- Read all camera propertiesSetDeviceProperty(deviceHandle, &property)- Change writable properties- Property codes for your use case:
CrDeviceProperty_FNumber- Aperture/F-stopCrDeviceProperty_IsoSensitivity- ISO settingCrDeviceProperty_ShutterSpeed- Shutter speedCrDeviceProperty_ExposureProgramMode- P/A/S/M modeOptional (Enhanced Features):
SendCommand(deviceHandle, CrCommandId_Release, param)- Trigger shutter (Down/Up)SetSaveInfo(deviceHandle, path, prefix, number)- Configure file save locationSetDeviceProperty(CrDeviceProperty_StillImageStoreDestination)- Set save destination (camera/host/both)
GetLiveViewImage()- Live preview streamingGetLiveViewProperties()- Live view-specific propertiesReleaseDeviceProperties()- Free property list memory
Hardware Requirements
Hardware Requirements
Prompt:What AI SDK Assistant Returns:
- Camera-specific hardware requirements
- Network adapter recommendations
- Authentication requirements (SSH)
- Cable and connection specifications
Connection-Specific Hardware Requirements: USB Connection:Use when: Planning hardware and infrastructureWired LAN (Ethernet) Connection:
- Standard USB cable (camera-specific type - e.g., USB Type-C for newer models)
- Direct connection to host PC USB port
- Cable length limitation: ~5m maximum
- No additional adapters needed for basic USB
Wireless LAN Connection:
- For ILX-LR1, ILME-FX6, MPC-2610: USB Type-C to Gigabit Ethernet adapter required
- Recommendation: Use Gigabit Ethernet compatible adapter for best performance
- Standard Ethernet cable (Cat5e or better)
- Can extend up to 100m+ with quality cables
- For PXW-Z200, HXR-NX800, BRC-AM7: Built-in Ethernet port (no adapter needed)
Authentication Requirements:
- Camera’s built-in Wi-Fi (if supported)
- Wireless network infrastructure (router/access point)
- Platform limitation: Not supported on Linux ARMv7/ARMv8
Multi-Camera Setups:
- SSH authentication required for: ILX-LR1, MPC-2610, ILME-FX6, PXW-Z200, HXR-NX800
- Default username:
admin- Password setup during initial pairing
- SSH fingerprint verification on first connection
- Standard USB connection: No SSH authentication needed (most Alpha series cameras)
- Network switch/hub (for wired multi-camera with LAN)
- Maximum 5 simultaneous connections per camera (MPC-2610 and similar models)
- Adequate network bandwidth planning for live view streaming
Compatibility Matrix
Compatibility Matrix
Prompt:What AI SDK Assistant Returns:
- Detailed compatibility tables with feature support
- Connection type limitations by camera
- Property availability and access modes
Camera Connection Compatibility: ILX-LR1 Full Support Matrix:Use when: Validating feature compatibility before implementationILCE-7RM4A (Alpha 7R IV) Support Matrix:
- USB: RemoteControl ✓, ContentsTransfer ✓, RemoteTransfer ✓
- Ethernet Wired: RemoteControl ✓, ContentsTransfer ✓, RemoteTransfer ✓
- Ethernet Wireless: RemoteControl ✓, ContentsTransfer ✓, RemoteTransfer ✓
Property Feature Validation Approach: To verify if specific features (F-stop, ISO, shutter speed) are supported on your camera:
- USB: RemoteControl ✓, ContentsTransfer ✓
- Ethernet: Not supported
Important Notes:
Call GetDeviceProperties() with property codes:Check CrPropertyEnableFlag for each property:
- Property exists in the returned list → Feature is supported
- Property not in list → Feature not available on this camera
Validate writability with IsSetEnableCurrentValue():- Example validation pattern from SDK:
- Some properties may be read-only in certain camera modes (e.g., Auto mode)
- Property availability can change based on camera settings (mode dial position, lens attached)
- Always validate before attempting to set values to avoid SDK errors
Connection Mode Selection
Connection Mode Selection
Prompt:What AI SDK Assistant Returns:
- Mode descriptions and use cases
- SDK version requirements for each mode
- Camera support by mode
- Performance and capability trade-offs
Connection Mode Comparison & Decision Matrix:Use when: Choosing the right connection mode for your applicationDetailed Mode Characteristics: RemoteControlMode (R):
Mode Abbreviation SDK Version Capabilities Best For RemoteControlMode R 1.00.00+ Camera control + automatic transfer of newly captured images Studio setups, live control apps, automated capture workflows ContentsTransferMode C 1.05.00+ Pull existing files from camera media (no control) Backup operations, downloading existing images from SD card RemoteTransferMode T 1.13.00+ Combined: control + transfer new captures + pull existing media Remote production, full file management workflows ContentsTransferMode (C):
- Full camera remote control capabilities
- Live view image streaming available
- Real-time property changes (ISO, F-stop, shutter speed)
- Capture commands and shutter control
- CAN automatically transfer newly captured images to host (via
SetSaveInfo+StillImageStoreDestination)- CANNOT pull existing images from camera SD card/media
- Use when: You need control and automatic transfer of new captures, but don’t need to access existing files on the card
RemoteTransferMode (T):
- File transfer ONLY - no camera control
- Pull existing images from camera media slots
- Cannot trigger captures or change settings
- Requires disconnect/reconnect to switch to control mode
- Use when: Batch downloading existing files from camera storage (no control needed)
Decision Tree:
- Full feature set: control + automatic transfer of new captures + pull existing media files
- Eliminates need for mode switching (disconnect/reconnect)
- Can execute shooting process during content transfer
- Maximizes efficiency for remote production workflows
- Trade-off: Content transfer speed may decrease during simultaneous operations
- Recommendation: Measure actual performance in your environment before production use
- Use when: You need complete file management (new captures + existing media access) with camera control
Camera Support Notes:
- Check compatibility tables - not all cameras support all modes
- ILX-LR1: Supports all three modes (R/C/T) on all connection types
- Many Alpha series cameras: Only support RemoteControlMode (R)
- Verify your specific camera model’s capabilities before implementation
4. Execution
Purpose: Generate production-ready code with proper SDK implementationsComplete Implementation
Complete Implementation
Prompt:What AI SDK Assistant Returns:Use when: Building a feature from scratch with comprehensive code
- Complete, working code examples from SDK samples
- Proper initialization and cleanup patterns
- Error handling with SDK error codes
- Camera connection with SSH authentication (if required)
Property Management
Property Management
Prompt:What AI SDK Assistant Returns:Use when: Implementing camera property get/set operations
- Property loading and parsing code
- Writable status checking
- Value validation and setting
- Error handling patterns
Callback Implementation
Callback Implementation
Prompt:What AI SDK Assistant Returns:Use when: Setting up event-driven SDK integration
- Complete callback implementations
- Thread-safety considerations
- Event handling patterns
- Connection state management
Image Capture
Image Capture
Prompt:What AI SDK Assistant Returns:Use when: Implementing image capture and file handling
- Shutter control command sequences
- Timing recommendations between commands
- Image capture completion detection
5. Debugging
Purpose: Resolve error codes, fix bugs, and clarify SDK conceptsError Code Resolution
Error Code Resolution
Prompt:What AI SDK Assistant Returns:Use when: Encountering specific SDK error codes
- Error code definitions and explanations
- Common causes and troubleshooting steps
- Code examples showing error handling
- Related error conditions
Connection Issues
Connection Issues
Prompt:What AI SDK Assistant Returns:
- Camera pairing instructions
- Network configuration requirements
- Connection prerequisites and timing
- Camera menu settings to verify
“When connecting via wired LAN, you need to perform the ‘Network > Cnct./Remote Sht. > Remote Shoot Function > Pairing’ operation on the camera to make it memorize the host PC. Once the pairing is established, turn off the camera, pause for about 10 seconds, and then turn it back on again. (The information is stored in the camera when the power is turned off.)”Use when: Troubleshooting connection problems
Concept Clarification
Concept Clarification
Prompt:What AI SDK Assistant Returns:Use when: Clarifying SDK concepts or terminology
- Detailed API explanations
- Use case comparisons
- Performance implications
- Code examples demonstrating differences
Unexpected Behavior
Unexpected Behavior
Prompt:What AI SDK Assistant Returns:
- Common pitfalls and timing issues
- Camera state requirements
- Missing prerequisite operations
- Debugging strategies
“The camera may not accept shooting operations immediately after connection. Camera Remote SDK supports only the Remote-Control Protocol Version 3.”Use when: Diagnosing unexpected SDK behavior
6. Testing & Validation
Purpose: Plan testing criteria and validate SDK integrationIntegration Testing Plan
Integration Testing Plan
Prompt:What AI SDK Assistant Returns:
- Common error scenarios to test
- Connection state transitions
- Property value validation
- Timeout and disconnection handling
- Connection timeout (CrError_Connect_TimeOut)
- Too many connections (CrError_Connect_FailBusy)
- SSH authentication failures
- Property write failures when not writable
- Spontaneous disconnection handling
Performance Validation
Performance Validation
Prompt:What AI SDK Assistant Returns:
- Timing considerations and limitations
- Resource management best practices
- Long-running operation guidance
- Performance monitoring approaches
“The camera may not accept shooting operations immediately after connection. Wait for proper callback notifications before sending commands.”Use when: Validating performance requirements
Multi-Camera Testing
Multi-Camera Testing
Prompt:What AI SDK Assistant Returns:
- Connection limits per camera
- Device handle management patterns
- Callback synchronization
- Resource cleanup requirements
“One camera can be controlled by multiple host PCs. The maximum number of simultaneous connections is 5 users (applications). If the number of Connect requests exceeds the limit, the Connect() will fail. Note that the connection is not complete until the OnConnected() callback is received.”Use when: Testing multi-camera implementations
Cross-Platform Validation
Cross-Platform Validation
Prompt:What AI SDK Assistant Returns:
- Platform-specific implementation details
- String handling differences (wide char vs. char)
- Path separator differences
- OS-specific limitations
“Camera Remote SDK for Linux 64bit (ARMv8) and Linux 32bit (ARMv7) are not supported for wireless connections.”Use when: Validating cross-platform compatibility
Advanced Tips
Combining Multiple Questions
For complex workflows, you can combine multiple aspects in a single prompt:Learning from Examples
Ask the AI SDK Assistant to show you how the official sample apps implement features:Understanding API Relationships
Ask about how different APIs work together:Using the System Prompt (Advanced)
The AI SDK Assistant includes a comprehensive system prompt that significantly enhances LLM performance when working with the Camera Remote SDK. While the MCP server works well without it, adding the system prompt provides more consistent, accurate, and context-aware responses.Why Use the System Prompt?
The system prompt is a detailed set of instructions (~450 lines, ~4,000 tokens) that teaches your AI assistant how to:- Prioritize MCP tools over web search for all SDK-related queries
- Confirm SDK version and programming language before providing answers
- Generate production-ready code with proper error handling, citations, and disclaimers
- Handle C# developers by automatically searching for C# implementations
- Follow systematic troubleshooting workflows for debugging
- Provide accurate compatibility information with appropriate caveats
When to Use It
✅ Recommended For
✅ Recommended For
- Complex multi-step implementations (connection + property management + image capture)
- Debugging and troubleshooting (systematic error resolution)
- C# development (ensures C#-specific code examples are retrieved)
- Production code generation (enforces proper error handling and citations)
- Long development sessions (maintains context and consistency)
⚠️ Optional For
⚠️ Optional For
- Quick one-off questions (simple API lookups, basic compatibility checks)
- Exploratory research (browsing SDK capabilities without coding)
- Initial testing (trying out the AI SDK Assistant for the first time)
How to Configure It
See the Setup page for platform-specific instructions on adding the system prompt to:- Claude (Projects, Desktop, Code)
- ChatGPT (conversations)
Performance Impact
- Context usage: ~4,000 tokens (~2-3% of most LLM context windows)
- Response quality: Significantly improved for complex queries
- Consistency: Maintains standards across multiple questions
- Trade-off: Slight increase in initial token usage, major improvement in answer accuracy
Need More Help?
- Tool Reference: See Tools for detailed information about AI SDK Assistant’s search capabilities
- Troubleshooting: Check Troubleshooting for common setup and usage issues
- Setup Guide: Review Setup if you need to reconfigure AI SDK Assistant
The more specific and detailed your questions, the better the AI SDK Assistant can help you learn and implement the Camera Remote SDK!

