In the field of machine vision, camera as one of the core equipment, its variety, different types of cameras for different industrial scenes and inspection needs. In vision inspection, industrial camera types are mainly divided into three types according to the interface: Gigabit network industrial cameras, HDMI industrial cameras and VGA industrial cameras.

Gigabit Network Industrial Camera

1、Features

① High-bandwidth transmission: It is capable of high-speed data transmission, and the data transmission rate can reach 1000Mbps per second (theoretical value), which makes it possible to quickly transmit a large amount of image data captured by the camera to the computer and other processing equipment. For example, when inspecting fast-moving products on a high-speed production line, it can transmit high-definition images in a timely manner to ensure real-time inspection.

② long-distance transmission stability: the effective transmission distance is long, generally about 100 metres, compared to some other interfaces of the camera, in large factory floors or complex industrial environments in the arrangement of the camera, do not have to worry too much about the distance problem caused by the signal attenuation is serious.

③ Strong scalability: support for multiple cameras connected to the same network at the same time, convenient to build a multi-camera visual inspection system. For example, in the all-round inspection of a large object, it can be shot from different angles by multiple Gigabit network industrial cameras, and it can coordinate the data transmission well.

2、Selection considerations

① Bandwidth requirement: If you need to transmit images with high resolution (e.g., more than 5 megapixels) or high frame rate (e.g., more than 100 frames per second), you need to consider whether the bandwidth can meet the requirements. For example, for high-precision electronic component inspection, which requires high resolution and high frame rate to capture subtle defects, the bandwidth of Gigabit network can meet the demand for such data transmission.

② Environmental interference: in the presence of electromagnetic interference and other complex environments, pay attention to its anti-interference ability. Some Gigabit Ethernet industrial cameras with shielding function can work better in this environment, such as in production line inspection scenarios with large motor equipment nearby.

③ Cost budget: relatively speaking, the price of Gigabit Ethernet industrial cameras may vary depending on the brand, performance and other factors, but overall due to its high performance, the price may be a little higher. It needs to be considered comprehensively according to the project budget when selecting the model.

HDMI Industrial Camera

1、Features

① HD quality output: HDMI interface can support high definition and even ultra-high definition (such as 4K) video output, providing high-quality image display. In some of the need for accurate observation of the image details of the occasion, such as precision mechanical parts of the surface quality inspection, can well present the surface texture of the parts and other details.

② Simple and easy to use: HDMI is a relatively common interface standard, many display devices directly support the HDMI interface. This makes it very convenient to connect the monitor and other equipment for image viewing, without the need for complex adapter equipment.

③ Good real-time display performance: After connecting to the appropriate display device, it can display the screen captured by the camera almost without delay, which is very helpful for on-site debugging and quick viewing of test results. For example, in the equipment installation and commissioning stage, you can easily connect the monitor through the HDMI interface, real-time adjustment of the camera's position and parameters.

2、Selection considerations

① Display device compatibility: Although HDMI is a common interface, but still need to pay attention to the camera's HDMI version and the connection of the display device is compatible. Different HDMI versions support different resolutions, frame rates and other parameters, to ensure that they can be matched to achieve the best display results.

② Transmission distance limitation: HDMI transmission distance is relatively short, generally high-quality HDMI cable without signal amplifier, the effective transmission distance of about 15 - 20 metres. If you need to transmit image data over a long distance, you may need to consider using a signal amplifier or other extension devices.

③ Functional requirements focus: If the project mainly focuses on on-site display and simple viewing of images, HDMI industrial cameras are a good choice. However, if complex data processing and storage is also required, it may need to be combined with other interfaces or devices to meet the needs.

VGA Industrial Camera

1、Features

① Strong versatility: VGA interface is a traditional video interface, many old devices still support this interface. VGA industrial cameras can be useful in some of the higher requirements for equipment compatibility, or need to be connected to older display devices or industrial control systems.

② Lower cost: Due to the relative maturity of the technology, VGA industrial cameras are usually cheaper. For cost-sensitive, simple visual inspection projects that do not require particularly high image quality, such as the appearance of some small plastic products, VGA industrial cameras can be an affordable option.

2、Selection considerations

① Image Quality Requirements: The resolution of the VGA interface is relatively low, supporting a maximum resolution of about 1920×1080 (in some cases), and the image quality may not be as good as that of the Gigabit Ethernet and HDMI industrial cameras in terms of details and colour reproduction, etc. If the inspection project requires high resolution or high quality images, the VGA industrial camera may not be suitable. If the inspection project requires high resolution or high quality images, VGA industrial cameras may not be suitable.

② Equipment Renewal Plan: Taking into account the VGA is a relatively old interface standard, if the enterprise has a plan to update equipment, the future may be eliminated VGA interface related equipment, then in the selection of the type should be carefully considered whether to choose the VGA industrial camera, so as to avoid the subsequent incompatibility of the equipment.

③ Transmission stability: In long-distance transmission or complex industrial environments, VGA signals may be subject to interference, resulting in blurred images, flicker and other problems. When selecting the model, you need to consider whether its transmission stability can meet the requirements of the actual application scenarios.