Sony’s FCB-EV7520A is another magnificent addition to the company’s FCB-EV family of CMOS inspection, surveillance, and monitoring block cameras that are optimizing industry technologies and applications. The FCB-EV7520A is deemed to be a valuable component of security and machine vision operations for several industries.

State of the Art Performance

 The FCB-EV7520A is ideal because of its outstanding ability to perform in extremely sensitive environments. It retains the steady, solid image capturing that is vital to military/law enforcement, UAV and drones, and the precision of medical/surgical procedures.

Filtering

Lighting is one of the most critical components of how the FCB-EV7520A is often used. The camera’s auto IR-cut filter removal (picking up a minimum of 0.35lx when on), instantly applies night/low-light settings, so it can produce crystal clear images. The 30x optical zoom lens is complemented by a slow AE response, picture freeze mode, and advanced 2D/3D noise reduction to pierce through poor lighting conditions. Additionally, the spherical privacy zone masking adjusts filtering settings accordingly, as the camera tilts, zooms, or pans.

Superb FCB-EV7520A Features
Whether or not you are already familiar with this series from Sony, its specs continue to illustrate why the manufacturer is such an industry favorite. Impressive features include:
30x optical zoom lens
Electronic/slow shutter
Black and white, E-flip, enhanced color,  mirror, and negative picture effects
Advanced 2D/3D noise reduction to illuminate poor lighting
Motion alarm/detector
Camera Mode Display
Picture freeze and white balance modes
Title display
Top quality HD 1920 x 1080/60p video
½.8”-type Exmor R™ CMOS sensor
Spherical privacy zone masking for adjusted filtering while using zoom, tilt, or pan mode
Motion Detector Alarm
Visibility enhancer, including de-fog setting
Auto ICR (IR-cut filter removal), for working in evening/low lighting
VISCA (TTL) command protocol, power, and HD video

Add the Sony FCB-EV7520A to Your Industry Equipment

The FCB-EV7520A has the premium technology to ably handle the unpredictable weather and external elements that can plague traffic monitoring, drone and UAV security, and surveillance equipment. It also illuminates dark areas that medical personnel may encounter during surgery, where they need to locate minute details and perform delicate techniques. Aegis Electronic Group, Inc. consistently stays up to date about industry needs and requirements, and which companies continue to stay ahead of advancements in mechanics and sciences. We’re just as excited as you, that Sony is quickly replacing their older FCB-EV model with a new one, and implementing the same fantastic details that define their products. Contact us today, to order this exceptional camera, so you can get it as soon as it arrives for our stock.

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The machine vision industry is going through unprecedented change. Artificial intelligence/deep learning and robotics will play a profound role in the future of machine vision systems. The adaption of artificial intelligence and robotics creates several questions for businesses looking toward the future. One of the biggest questions is, “Will the business be left behind?” As you know, that question has a depth that can’t be answered by one single solution. Several other items follow that, for instance, are we preparing for the future? Do our current vision inspection systems have the capability to transition into a more futuristic workflow? Are we displaying the foresight and knowledge to make the proper decisions about operating procedures and new technologies? Machine vision’s expansion is seen most in vertical markets such as automotive, energy, and medical applications. If your company produces products for vertical markets or deploys industrial or machine vision cameras consider your systems’ future viability and get ahead of the game.

Machine vision, in combination with AI, is shaping the future of production and manufacturing. Deep learning is providing faster, cheaper, and superior automation for inspection practices. Most inspection processes take place at regular intervals, making automation ideal for the application (Vision Online, 2019). Machine Vision, integrated with Deep Learning,  go beyond human visual acuity. Machine vision can view in the ultraviolet, x-ray, and infrared regions of the spectrum. The addition of deep learning allows the systems to analyze complex surface and cosmetic defects, scratches, or dents on parts that are turned, brushed, or shiny. Deep learning, in combination with machine vision, reduces product waste, and increases productivity. Once deep learning fully incorporates with robotics, the world will be a different place.

Machine vision, coupled with robotics, will change the way future factory floors look and operate. Currently, there is an unprecedented growth of robotics in several fields including production and processing. “The number of robots in use worldwide multiplied threefold over the past two decades, to 2.25 million,” CEO and chief economist for Oxford Economics Adrian Cooper said. “Trends suggest the global stock of robots will multiply even faster in the next 20 years, reaching as many as 20 million by 2030.” The increasing global stock of robots will have an impact on several markets both horizontal and vertical.

Machine vision, artificial intelligence, and robotics will reshape the world. Numerous changes are coming over the horizon, and we will interact with objects like never before. The cars we drive will “know” us, think of K.I.T. from Night Rider, and the medical treatments we receive will seem futuristic. More importantly, the production of the goods we consume will improve drastically elevating health and safety levels for workers as well as customers. Does your company stand at the forefront of machine vision technology?

References:

Robots, Jobs, and Productivity: The Future Of the Workplace

/@MistyRobotics – https://medium.com/mistyrobotics/robots-jobs-and-productivity-the-future-of-the-workplace-3c4bf2b8831f

Vision Online. (2019). Machine Vision & AI: Improving Automated Inspection in Manufacturing. [online] Available at: https://www.visiononline.org/blog-article.cfm/Machine-Vision-AI-Improving-Automated-Inspection-in-Manufacturing/189 [Accessed 2 Aug. 2019].

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Specially designed for Sony 7500 series the 2X Teleconverter lens has a 3G-5E all-glass lens, made to survey the longest of distances.

The following reviews studies in detail the applications of the lens and the results it delivers when used with a camera.

Features

A camera that has impressive general imaging, the 2X Teleconverter has the potential to double the focal length of the image a camera captures. In addition to the ability to increase the distance between the lens and the image sensor, the FTC 2X Lens is equipped with full HD resolution.

The teleconverter lens guarantees incredible picture quality for the user by allowing the users to keep the original F stop setting.

The teleconverter lens is adaptable to any camera module that has a front lens of diameter less than 33mm. Vignetting that shapes the contrast and brightness of an image appears towards the broad side of the lens.

Now that you are aware of the general features of the product let’s take a brief look at the applicability and the uses of the lens.

Applications

The FTC 2X Teleconverter lens has made a name for itself in the surveillance industry. In this day and age where there is a dire need for security, the FTC 2X Teleconverter lens provides its users with results ideal for long-distance surveillance.

As you can assess by the features the lens possesses, it is the military and the border security forces that can make the most out of using the product.

Increasing the focal length of the attached lenses, the FTC 2X teleconverter leaves a noticeable impact on the overall sharpness of the product as it increases chromatic aberration. However, to the pleasant surprise of many, the increase does not have an effect on the image quality as it still remains quite decent.

The increased camera to subject distance means that the subject is now unaware of possible detection. This provides the military to detect any untoward activity or trespassing that happens within their territory.

The lens also gives the user the option of attaining a vantage point. Moments captured from a height are naturally more breathtaking and clear.

In the case where the subject detects visual photography, the great camera to subject means the person will still not be able to figure whom the surveillance specialist is photographing.

The ability of the FTC 2X to increase the size of the image circle provided by the host lens to effectively increase the focal length of the lens. This gives troops at the borders a clear and much brighter picture even in the darkest of nights.

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Have you watched ABC’s hit reality series, Holey Moley? The innovative series takes the contestants on a crazy mini-golf course that’s land-mined with challenges. One of these challenges includes picking their golf partner to be either NBA star Steph Curry or a golfing robot.

On any other day, we’d probably select Steph Curry to be on our side. However, the golf robot did have certain advantages over our star basketball player. Like the fact that it has superior precision, computerized strategy and the wonderful Rob Riggle as the face of the robot. Who wouldn’t want that face in bright realistic colors guiding them from hole to hole!

Little known was how realistic Rob Riggles face was on the robot because of display technology from a TRU-Vu monitor.  This clever flat-screen gave the robot an extra edge on the show. Its Sunlight Readable Monitor technology far surpasses regular outdoor TV displays. Just another piece of technology putting a human face to advance the world of golfing robots.

  
Let’s look at all the reasons why Sunlight Readable Monitor was chosen for this task:

1. Tru-Vu’s Readability Factor

How many times have you squinted at the TV-screen when the lights are too bright?

The answer is plenty! Sunlight Readable Monitors are having been engineered to counter this problem. The screen displays high-quality imaging that won’t get distorted because of sunlight (or any other lights). So it doesn’t matter whether you’re using it for a daytime event or in a brightly lit studio. Sunlight Readability Monitor will ensure that everything appears crystal clear throughout the event.

Bonus: The 15.6” makes it easier for the audience to catch the action without any issues.

2. Ruggedness of the Tru-Vu Monitors

The great part about TRU-Vu monitors is that they’re super sturdy. Unlike, traditional TV-screens they won’t shatter due to a few bumps. The scratch-resistant screen and hard-wearing metallic construction make it a solid investment.

3. Rave Reviews

Last but definitely, not the least; this wasn’t TRU-Vu’s first rodeo.

It’s been a while since the company started catering to clients from the entertainment industry. So far, it’s secured a place in popular dramas like Chicago Med and Chicago PD. You can also see it making its silver screen appearance on the dystopian series ‘The Hunger Games’.

In addition to those, their monitors have been utilized in numerous other sport-centric shows.

So it’s safe to assume that the company’s brilliant track record helped it score the Holey Moley gig.

In a Nutshell

On the whole, Sunlight Readable Monitor proves to be a great asset for all big and small production houses. From providing the audience with clear visuals to being accident-proof―this cutting-edge monitor’s got a lot to offer.

Photo credits: The Mercury News, ABC TV

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Any washdown or outdoor manufacturing environment requires monitors capable of withstanding the elements. Whether the monitor serves as a progress display for Lean manufacturing, as a job status display or for other purposes, the newest waterproof monitor from Tru-Vu is here. A large bright 21.5” screen will serve these challenging environments well.

Washdown Duty

A stainless steel enclosure makes the VMW-21.5R well suited to a washdown environment. Whether it is food processing or pharmaceutical, this large and bright monitor is ready for duty. Using enclosures always carried a leakage risk. Now Tru-Vu offers a completely integrated waterproof monitor that does not compromise moisture integrity.

Pharmaceutical sterility

The washdown process may be more of a wipe down. Regardless, the materials of display monitors need to be capable of handling the water, soaps or disinfectants in use.

Outdoor production yards and facilities

Material yards, lumber, mills, steel and other outdoor production yards are open to the elements. Without a waterproof display, the ability for displays either falls aside or is a jerry-rigged setup. Drivers need to easily see large displays through their windshields and roll cages. Add a bit of sprinkling from Mother Nature and the outdoor environment can be a challenge. But even in the rain, the bright waterproof 21.5” waterproof monitor from Tru-Vu can serve the need. Whether you are displaying information about will calls, deliveries or notifications, the VMW-21.5R will visualize your message.

Freezing and Corrosion 

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Using a 4k ultra HD camera in action is like going from a bicycle to a car. Getting down the road takes a few adjustments to enjoy the speed. But like a car crash, there are a few pitfalls to watch out for. The adjustments to use a 4k camera are the same whether the camera is for personal use or in a machine vision environment. Here are three considerations when you use a 4k camera in action.

1. Mistakes Are More Obvious

Higher resolution illuminates more of everything, including mistakes. For machine vision, existing software may suddenly trigger on pixel areas in the image. The prior lower resolution camera may have had less pixels for consideration in that area. This is due to a 4k ultra HD camera having up to four times the resolution over a 2k unit. Keep that in mind if you retain an older image processor when upgrading to a 4k HD camera.

Recommendation: Review accuracy of your image processing after the camera upgrade. 

Higher resolution 4k cameras for personal use can illuminate funny photo bombs and embarrassing framing errors. That dog doing his business in the background can be easily distinguished.

Recommendation: Before you take a picture with a 4k camera, check the background to ensure there is no “Instagram” moment going on back there.

2. Image File Size Impacts Computing Power

A bigger shovel to dig a ditch faster also means each shovel load weighs more. That is the way to think about 4k ultra HD images in action. The camera may slow down to process the higher resolution image. The memory card may fill up quicker. The download of a group of pictures will certainly be noticeable.

In machine vision, the doubled file size might slow any moment of processing in the workflow. A 4k lense may need an updated frame grabber. A rapid flow of those images may choke inside the constrictions of an older data cable.  The image processor may lag significantly.

Recommendation: Evaluate your hardware from cradle to grave for the image processing workflow to identify locations of insufficient processing power.

For recreational use, be ready to max out your SD cards. It is common to fill up a 8 gigabyte card sooner than expected. When downloading the cards, or the camera’s memory, be ready to order a pizza. It takes much longer for the same number of pictures of a lower resolution camera. Experience has shown we will take the same number of pictures with a 4k camera. Therefore, carrying a couple extra SD cards, a hard case to hold them, and even an auto-download external hard drive has become best practice.

Recommendation: Have extra storage capacity ready on hand, for download, and long term storage.

3. Menu Settings Matter

Are you familiar with RAW, warmth, tone and filters? These type of menu settings can make or break a 4k HD picture. For machine vision, the settings can throw everything off downstream in the workflow. Just like accounting for resolution, adjusting the warmth and tone can make the difference of keying to the correct pixel area 100% of the time, or having intermittent misses. Be especially careful if there is any lighting variation to the target area. A change in overhead lighting, a passing shadow or sun beam through the day, can bring out variations in the 4k image that can cause fluctuations downstream in the processing.

Recommendation: Be ready to adjust image settings for optimal results in processing

The RAW, warmth, tone and filters make a difference in recreational photography too. If the ‘levels’ are off, then that fall foliage shot may look boring. Adjusting the filters and tone before taking the shot can bring out the colors you were hoping for. Why? Because 4k allows the human eye to take in more detail of that picture, making it harder to fool the naked eye. Thankfully, there are more preset ‘filters’ in modern graphic design software. (Even PowerPoint and MS Word have them built in.)

Pictures viewed on smartphones are more forgiving. But viewed on monitors, television or tablets, pictures without optimized settings will be obvious. So before taking the picture, try to dial in the correct settings. Take a couple test pictures. If something looks off, then look through the camera’s menu. A 4k HD camera will have settings that adjust the shot at the moment. Later, fine tune it in your software. But no matter of extreme post-event manipulation can make up for a bad initial image.

Recommendation: Use test shots to check if camera settings are necessary.

In conclusion, the naked eye is less forgiving of mistakes in a 4k ultra HD picture. The same goes for that image in action within the machine vision environment. A little adjustment and consideration goes a long way to achieving the results you want.

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HDR Helps Lens and Camera Systems Overcome Poor Lighting

HDR is a background technology that help lens and camera systems overcome bad lighting in machine vision, QA and factory automation applications. While the human eye can easily adjust to low lighting, cameras do not. When did your machine vision application ever have perfect lighting like that of a supermodel photo shoot?

Dim lighting or indirect lighting in a machine vision application can be overcome by the use of HDR technology. It essentially expands the exposure range of the lens and camera. Within milliseconds, over-exposed shots are collected along with under-exposed ones, then combined for a final output.

What is HDR?

HDR is short for high dynamic range. It expands the range of colors and contrasts that a camera/lens combination is able to produce. By having a bigger contrast of information between neighboring pixels, the output is easier for target identification in factory automation, machine vision, and quality inspection applications. In short, here is a buzz phrase to impress the boss with: “HDR provides a wider range of luminosity.”

Think of the sunset or sunrise photos you have tried to take. Ever notice they come out darker on your smart phone then you see them with your naked eye? Now open the camera application on your smart phone. Look for the ‘HDR’ option. It is usually clustered near the options for the flash. Put your drivers license into a shadowed corner then take a couple photos at various distances with the HDR activated. Now de-activate HDR and take a couple more. Then go back and zoom in on the pictures to see the difference of clarity in the fine details.

A Great Example of HDR Processing

A great example of HDR in use within our industry is on a support page from Pixelink. They provide a great visual showing how HDR technology pulls in a low exposure shot along with a high exposure shot of a circuit board. Instead of just showing the combined image from those two sources, it demonstrates how varied of an exposure the low is from the high.

On our smart phones, we only see the resulting combined image. But for machine vision applications, you can readily understand how helpful it is to have so much control over the image submitted for target processing.

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Anyone needing a USB cord longer then ten feet may have asked the question, “How does a USB extender work?” Few people know that USB cables were not designed to be longer than 16 feet. USB camera placement can easily exceed that restriction. So can industrial automation, surveillances or sensor monitoring applications.

Why does a USB cord need to be extended

The USB cord carries both electrical power and data. The laws of nature enforce a decay of quality over distances on both power and data. That natural law is measured by impedance, or resistance. The effect is that 5 volts at the beginning will no longer be 5 volts forty feet away. Therefore, engineering the materials within the USB cord seeks to ensure 100% reliable power and data quality within sixteen feet.

That engineering standard was set by a cooperative agreement between Microsoft, Hewlett-Packard, Intel, Lucent, NEC and Phillips. They created a cable standard that would be guaranteed to work between computers and peripherals. They designed a cord that would both power the peripheral and supporting data transfer rates up to 480 megabyts per second.

What Does A USB Extender Do

USB Extenders  counteract the natural decay of power and data quality. They boost the voltage back up into the range of engineering standards. They ensure a USB peripheral functions correctly at a distance from the host computer. Modern USB Extenders can use self-powered cables (USB 3.0), a series of hubs, or converting the signal back and forth from CAT5 (or CAT6).

How Many Meters Can USB Cable Extender Be

There are basically three types of USB extenders The length of the use case influences which type of extender to use:

1. If less than 5 meters (about 16 feet), a simple extension cable.
2. If less then 25 meters (about 82 feeet), then a series of hubs
3. Beyond 25 meters, then a CAT5 Extender system.

3 Types of USB Extenders

The USB extension cable can extend the reach of a short (3 or 6 feet) USB cord up to the maximum 16 feet. They have a female/male connector that simply plugs into the root USB cable.

Using the hub method to extend the reach up to 75 feet may require wall power. The hubs have to counteract decaying voltage. Therefore they typically have to be plugged in to standard 110v wall outlets. These are called powered hubs. It is possible to use non-powered hubs. But there is a risk of signal and power decay. Which could result in the peripheral not functioning correctly. Therefore alternating a powered hub every other point in the series of hubs may be appropriate.

The longest reach of a USB peripheral can be accomplished by using a CAT5 Extender system. Basically a converter changes the USB signal into a CAT5 type at the peripheral then decodes it back to USB at the host computer. This is accomplished by running a CAT5 cable between the “converter” box at the peripheral and the “decoder” box at the host computer. The “decoder” box reverts the CAT5 data signal back into a USB type. Thus allowing the host computer to interact with the USB signal in its native form.

USB Extenders For Industrial Imaging & Surveillance

Industrial imaging, video surveillance and security camera systems often incorporate USB extenders. Their environments can easily exceed the USB limitation of 3 meters. Knowing how USB extenders work will ensure 100% data quality is delivered from the a USB camera over extended distances.

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Take a look at Navitar’s 20 MP camera with the Sony IMX183 sensor. The combination of three high value features lifts the tide of functionality. Automation and machine vision applications will benefit from the frame speed, sensor size and 20 megapixel resolution of this Navitar 20 MP camera with Sony IMX183 sensor. The specification sheet can be downloaded here:

APPLICATIONS

The Pixelink PL-D7620CU leads the way for automation applications requiring high resolution for superb accuracy. Customers seeking this type of camera are using them in the following areas:
• Biometrics
• Parts inspection
• Strength testing
• Metrology
• Medical imaging
• PCB & Flat Panel Display Inspection

PARTS INSPECTION

The Pixelink PL-D7620CM uses a monochrome approach for parts inspection where color is insignificant. If parts inspection requires color, or to be board mounted, the models for those applications would be PL-D7620CU or Pixelink model D7620CU-BL. There is an option for a triggered model with PL-7620CU-T.

BIOMETRICS

Biometrics can be evaluating fingerprints, iris or face. The 20 megapixel resolution of the PL-7620 series allows for distance issues to be compensated for. Trying to get humans to put their face, or iris, exactly to the distance of millimeter specification is unreasonable. Therefore the 20 megapixal advantage allows for sufficient resolution from the final image to provide the pixel volume needed for determination.

PCB & FLAT PANEL DISPLAY INSPECTION

How about 20 frames per second with 20 megapixel resolution? And a 1 inch CMOS to boot? From that foundation, a vision solution can be built that goes to the next level. The camera models cover both color, monochrome, board mount, the standard camera box or even triggered.

EASY TO SPEC, BUILD, TEST AND DEPLOY

There are two powerful software suites to enable the build out of this Pixelink PL-D7620 camera series. The camera’s image management software, Pixelink Capture, will actually manage image streams from multiple cameras. For developers wanting full access “behind the curtain”, the Pixelink SDK gives full control of all functions. See more in the last page of the specification sheet here.

WHY THE SONY IMX183 SENSOR?

Credit is due to Sony for the IMX183 sensor. While Pixelink camera’s are a step above, they are first built on the excellent work from Sony. Their release of the IMX 183 heralded a step forward for all downstream applications. For a complete geek out of an independent reviewer/user, try reading through this gentleman’s post here.

WHERE NEXT?

Pixelink keeps coming out with cameras that advance automation and machine vision solutions. This PL-D7620 family is another example of it. We look forward to our customers sharing about their solutions built on this triple value camera.

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ROHS COMPLIANCE AND INDUSTRIAL IMAGING

There is a cross roads of supply chain management, social responsibility and protecting the environment. ROHS compliance for industrial imaging and factory automation applications are in that crossroads. It assures manufacturers their vendors are meeting the highest standards for reducing harmful elements.

WHAT IS ROHS COMPLIANCE?

A supply chain vendor who is ROHS compliant has gone the extra mile to prove potentially harmful elements are minimized. Their components are lower in harmful elements like mercury, lead, cadmium, Cr VI, PBB, PBDE, DEHP, BBP, DBP, and DIBP (acronyms explained here.) While seven of those materials are abbreviated here, they are known to scientists as toxic to the environment when discarded in unprotected landfills. The dumping of consumer electronics into landfills years ago prompted the environmental concerns that led to ROHS.

The European Union passed the Restriction of Hazardous Substances (ROHS) in 2003. Subsequent revisions have kept the focus on the central intent of addressing consumer electronics. The current categories addressed are listed below. In red are categories of equipment that are potentially in use for factory automation, industrial imaging, quality inspection and security camera applications:

HOW ROHS COMPLIANCE APPLIES TO INDUSTRIAL IMAGING

Industrial imaging systems use the global supply chain. Global supply chains have been of tremendous help to OEM’s (original equipment manufacturers). It has allowed Japanese machine vision lenses to be mated with Lithuanian lasers and Chinese circuit boards using Californian programmers to make automated measuring devices to speed up quality assurance checks. The brand putting all those components together is the OEM. Their ability to reduce toxins to the environment is enabled in part by choosing vendors that are ROHS compliant. The adoption of corporate social responsibility statements in manufacturing has been happening for over 14 years (link).

WHAT IT TAKES TO BE ROHS COMPLIANT

Obtaining certification is a three step process. First is testing, followed by a process audit, then concluded with a documentation review. This is critical for any products sold into the European Union. One statement clarifies it as: “Manufacturers of hazardous material must become RoHS compliant in order to sell and distribute the product inside of the European Union, which is exactly why it is so vital for a company to obtain these credentials.” (source link)

CHOOSING VENDORS WITH ROHS COMPLIANCE

Choosing vendors that are ROHS compliant may be easier then you think. Look for a link on their website to their certificate. Or open a conversation with their sales team on the topic. Anyone sourcing components for an quality inspection, industrial imaging, CCTV or factory automation application has a chance to participate in the earth-friendly crossroads that ROHS compliance provides.

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SHOULD IT BE A USB OR A GigE CAMERA?

Choosing to use a USB versus a GigE camera for a machine vision application is simple. There is one question that will clarify the choice. How far is it from the camera to the processor?

Surprisingly, the choice between a USB versus a GigE camera has very little to do with the camera itself. There are really no feature sets, functions or capabilities between one camera or the other. Pick the camera based on features, then check for the output you decide on. (example). That stated, an examination of the two deciding factors for the USB vs GigE output port is next. The two factors are length and speed.

LENGTH IS CRITICAL

The USB vs GigE choice is less about the connector and more about the length of the cable. If the distance from camera to processor is more than 16 feet (~5 meters), then cable selection becomes critical. USB is rated for 5 meters or less, while GigE cable can function to about 100 meters. USB extenders can extend signal quality and speed up to about 25 meters. But beyond 25 meters, signal degradation and data speeds are not reliable with USB cables. So the GigE option becomes a requirement beyond that 25 meter point.

BANDWIDTH IS NEXT

A USB 3.0 cable allows for about 625 pictures per second from a 12 megapixel camera. That stems from its data speed of 5 gigabytes per second. This allows five times the volume per second more than the GigE cable. There are four wires within the cables.

The GigE cable allows about 125 pictures per second from a 12 megapixel camera. That stems from its data speed of 1 gigabyte per second. It was designed for reliable signal quality over long distances. Most people would recognize a GigE cable as being the blue or yellow one that connects computers to a LAN or wired internet. GigE stands for “ gigabyte ethernet”, as in “1 gigabyte of data speed over an ethernet style cable”. There are eight wires within the cable.

USING A USB CAMERA BETWEEN 5 TO 25 METERS

A high data application may be rendered inept from lower data speeds over a long GigE cable. Thankfully there have been a number of solutions brought to market that solve the need for USB speeds between 5 and 25 meters. Our article on USB Extenders is a good place to start.

USB Extenders grant access to data intensive applications up to around 82 feet (25 meters). Beyond that, a USB extension system actually incorporates ethernet cables, which result in the lower transmission speeds.

WILL CONNECTORS FORCE A CHOICE OF USB vs GigE CAMERA?

Connecting the desired camera to the desired processor is last piece of the puzzle. Thankfully there is an endless combination of plugs that can be put on either end of a cable. Websites offer an easy method to customize the originating connector and end connector to a USB cable. An example of an easy ‘click and select’ connector is here.

Machine vision applications are not limited by the camera being a USB or a GigE. It is the distance from camera to processor then data speed that are the deciding factors for which camera output will be chosen.

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In 2017, Microsoft warned its customers against using Windows 7. As per the company, the platform does not meet modern security requirements. It is hindered by several hardware restrictions as well. While it remains debatable whether Windows 7 is truly obsolete, the lack of security certainly raises a lot of red flags.

As a result of this development, many hospitals, clinics, police stations, and OEMs are upgrading their PCs to Windows 10. Purchasing a suitable frame grabber for this platform can be tricky though. Read on as we discuss why you need a good frame grabber and the best frame grabber for Windows 10.

Understanding Frame Grabbers

A frame grabber is a component used in a machine vision system. They help capture high-resolution images from an analog or digital video stream. A frame grabber is connected to a PC system through a USB or Ethernet. Advanced frame grabbers are capable of capturing a variety of inputs at the same time. These can be transformed into images and compressed to meet requirements.

Frame grabbers can be used in a variety of settings. For instance, frame grabbers are employed in healthcare and manufacturing. Police officers also use this tool to gather evidence pertaining to their work.

A frame grabber also offers very high data rates that can help you transfer up to 25 GBs of data per second. Additionally, it offers advanced imaging functions and maintains low transmission latency. Using a frame grabber will also mean that your PC is free to perform other tasks.

Given these benefits, the superiority of the frame grabber remains unchallenged.

Choosing the Best Frame Grabber for Windows 10

To choose the best frame grabber for Windows 10, you will have to consider the camera type you are using. The frame grabber also needs to be compatible with the software you are using. Finally, you must also check for the number of cameras attached and supported interface used by each camera.

If you are looking for a high-quality frame grabber that will meet these requirements, then we suggest you opt for the following:

1. dPictAexeon 32MB PCIe, 10012-001
2. dPictAexeon HD S PCI Express, 10042-001

The dPictAexeon HD S is a fully-functional frame grabber that is capable of accepting a variety of video inputs in NTSC and PAL format. It offers high-quality onboard processing along with complete control over the imaging device being used.

We highly recommend this frame grabber for professionals looking for digital and analog image capture solutions. If you are opting for this frame grabber board, we suggest you use a machine with a power supply of around 600 W for optimal performance.

The dPictAexeon PCIe is also a great option and can be used by professionals looking for a frame grabber board that needs a smaller slot. If you are looking to replace your old Integral Vision frame grabber for Windows 10, then any of these will be an excellent replacement.

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OMRON & SENTECH: SMALL CAMERAS BUT BIG PLAYERS FOR MACHINE VISION

The lineage of Omron and Sentech for machine vision applications goes all the way back nearly 100 years. Their launch started with a medical industry application, x-ray timers. Their recent attendance at 2020 CES showcased how current and relevant their camera applications in for multiple industries like: industrial automation, healthcare, social systems mechanical components and environmental solutions. The sixth generation ping-pong training robot uses Omron’s camera’s and machine vision applications to sense the players emotions, respond accordingly while tracking and whacking the ping-pong ball back and forth.

MAKING IMPRESSIONS AT THE LAS VEGAS 2020 CES

A unique machine vision application they showcased at their booth was their 6^th generation ping-pong robot / trainer. Watch this unique use of machine vision in this video. Game play was observable overhead on their eye-popping display that was over 20 feet wide. Their latest technologies attracted over 20,000 visitors to their booth. Attention was split between the ping-pong robot, an award winning wearable blood pressure cuff and an AI-powered SCARA robot (an industrial automation labor saver).

 MERGER AND STRENGTHS

Omron was recently joined by another machine vision provider, Sentech. Sentech has specialized in machine vision cameras for over 20 years. Their first CMOS cameras were released in 1988. CCD cameras followed shortly thereafter. Their first USB camera came in 2005 followed by other high impact niche cameras for industrial automation and machine vision applications.

THE CAMERAS OF SENTECH / OMRON

Today, the Sentech line of machine vision cameras range from USB, Camera Link, HD (DVI/SDI), line scan, CoaXPress and to GigE. The benefits of GigE and USB cameras are covered here. The high bandwidth of CoaXPress cameras ranges from 6 to over 31 gigabytes per second. Their range of available sizes allows for applications from large environments to drone sized enclosures

GLOBAL USE

Omron’s acquisition of Sentech combined two natural forces in the world of industrial automation and machine vision. The cameras from Sentech are highly likely to be deployed in the industrial arena’s Omron is well known for. With over 35,000 employees in 117 countries, their portfolio of technology is making a difference in the advancement of deploying machine vision in a wide variety of useful ways.

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Industrial cameras for machine vision are commonplace. They have an interesting path through history for them to have developed into the sophisticated tool of today. Here is a closer look at the evolution of industrial cameras in machine vision.

The Rise Of Machine Vision

Even before the rise of digital technology, industries found a way to use cameras to improve workflow. One of the earliest examples of this is the pinhole camera (camera obscura), which helped to reproduce drawings for artists. Pinhole cameras used for this purpose date back to about the year 1500.

Imaging evolved when statistical pattern recognition was being developed in the 1950s. But one of the biggest breakthroughs for modern machine vision was in the 1960s thanks to Larry Roberts. His Ph.D. thesis at MIT focused on gathering 3D data from 2D sources.

This led to further research from MIT about how to use this idea practically. The university’s David Marr later applied the concept of machine vision by figuring out a way for a computer to build a 3D image based on a 2D sketch.

The Boom of Industrial Cameras

By the 1980s, optical character recognition (OCR) systems were already being used to read numbers and symbols. Smart cameras came later in the decade, opening up the applications for OCR.

This drove the demand for machine vision even further, making it an industry of its own. The move also made this technology more affordable to companies. By the 1990s, machine vision was a lot more common in manufacturing settings.

Modern Industrial Imaging

The camera systems have evolved in the past two decades. Advances are marked by some milestones including Sony’s smart camera in 2005 and BAUMER introducing cameras with a dual GigE interface in 2010.

Computer processing speeds have steadily risen. This allowed the cameras and software to keep up with inspection in a factory as quickly as a production line rolls out products. Meanwhile, hi-speed 3D imaging systems are becoming more economical, while industrial cameras are also smaller.

Machine vision systems can do a lot these days, paired with artificial intelligence. They have expanded applications ranging from quality control to thermal imaging to sorting. They serve a number of industries including automotive, aerospace, food and more.

Recap

Machine vision and industrial cameras have come a long way since their inception. They can greatly speed up automated processes. Thanks to the growing popularity of these systems and expanded applications, they have become a practical choice for many industries.

Learn more about our selection of specialized cameras and other imaging equipment by contacting us.

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This period of working remotely during the coronavirus may allow more time to research components for your machine vision system. For example, the need for a monitor which is waterproof, a touch screen or industrial grade, can be satisfied with our in-stock inventory. See this on our product pages like this product pages.

An Available Inventory

We have products in stock. For example, there are over 134 monitors available. And that is just counting our Tru-Vu line. We carry five brands of monitors. These include the ViewZ, Tatung, InVid Tech, Tru-Vu and Black Magic Design

A Diverse Inventory

Industrial grade monitors are a great example of our diverse inventory. We have the 32” customizable HD LCD industrial grade monitor. The level of customization can be read in its spec sheet. Three different enclosures are available: open frame, touch screen or standard enclosure. The internal hardware utilizes industrial grade components not found in retail / consumer-grade monitors. The capabilities of this monitor is further rounded out by having four different video input types. Read more.

Infrared Inventory

The type of systems monitoring forehead temperatures of pedestrians can be built from our inventory. We have the IR cameras, the monitors and controllers. The IR cameras from Tamron are in our inventory. The auto-iris function of the 13FG04IR-SQ is a great example of this. It will function for either day or night use. And even with conventional black and white CCTV cameras. Read more here.

We Answer Your Phone Calls

We keep an inventory on hand for you because we are not just a drop shipping service. There are shelves of inventory on hand ready to complete your machine vision system. Our staff are readily available by phone to answer questions that go beyond the details on our product pages. We are here to help you.

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