Image sensor main specifications

Industrial camera sensors are the backbone of machine vision systems, with several key specifications defining their performance and suitability for different applications. Among these specifications are sensor format, resolution, sensor type, sensitivity, and shutter type.

Sensor Format: Sensor format, such as full-frame or APS-C, determines the physical size of the sensor and its compatibility with lenses. Positively correlated with sensor resolution, different sensor formats offer varying levels of image quality, allowing users to choose the most suitable option for their specific application needs.

Resolution: Resolution, measured in megapixels, defines the level of detail that the sensor can capture in an image. Higher resolution sensors contain more light-sensitive pixels, which facilitates greater granularity, essential for tasks like precise measurement, inspection, and identification. Conversely, lower resolution sensors may suffice for applications where less detail is required and due to their smaller resulting image weights, cameras that incorporate these sensors tend to feature faster frame rates.

Matrix vs Line-scan Cameras: Matrix cameras, sometimes called area-scan cameras, capture entire images at once, making them suitable for static scenes and objects, while line-scan cameras capture images line by line, ideal for continuous or high-speed applications like printing, web inspection, and conveyor belt monitoring.

CMOS vs CCD Sensors: CMOS sensors offer advantages such as lower power consumption, higher speed, and lower cost, making them popular choices for many industrial camera applications. On the other hand, CCD sensors typically provide better image quality, higher sensitivity, and lower noise levels, making them suitable for applications requiring superior image performance, such as scientific imaging and microscopy.

Sensitivity and Dynamic Range: Sensitivity refers to the sensor's ability to capture light, with higher sensitivity enabling clear imaging in low-light conditions. Dynamic range determines the sensor's ability to capture both bright and dark areas in a scene, crucial for maintaining detail in high-contrast images and challenging lighting conditions.

Rolling vs Global Shutters: Rolling shutters scan the image line by line, which can lead to image distortion with fast-moving objects or vibrations. Global shutters capture the entire frame simultaneously, preserving image integrity and ensuring accurate representation of moving objects without distortion.

Monochrome vs Color Sensors: Monochrome sensors capture images in grayscale, offering higher sensitivity and resolution compared to color sensors. Color sensors capture images with color information, providing valuable data for applications such as quality control, color inspection, and object recognition.