The design of area scan cameras includes a number of features to make these products suited for various imaging applications. The most important thing is the resolution (from 1 megapixel to over 20). Increased resolutions permit high-detail images, crucial for precise inspections. A 2024 report actually published by Imaging Resource states that in the electronics industry high-resolution area scan cameras are employed to find tiny defects on circuit boards that can't be inspected properly with a paltry 5-megapixel camera.
Another crucial aspect is the sensor type. Area scan cameras use CCD or CMOS sensors. Due to having high quality images and better low light performance, the name of this type is CCD. CMOS sensors have a faster readout speed and use lower power. The Vision Systems Design study PD 2024 from 2005 said that – largely because CMOS sensors are suitable for high-speed applications and price attractive, while the well-known advantages of CCD matrix technology make them less desirable.
Also important is the frame rate; or how fast an area scan camera acquires images. From slow cameras: 30 frames per second or if they are faster can exceed up to more than a hundred. Applications used in dynamic applications where fast moving objects are to be captured will require high frame rates. To demonstrate, a case study from Automation World in 2024 outlined how high-frame-rate cameras are employed at fast-moving production lines to support quality control without interrupting the flow of goods.
Area scan cameras have a variety of options for connectivity, which impacts their versatility. Some common interfaces are gigE vision, camera link and USB 3.0 The interface chosen will determine how quickly data can be transferred and its potential for integration with other systems. In a review from Machine Vision Online for 2024, it is said that cameras using GigE vision interfaces with high speed data transfer and up to 100 meter cable lengths are beneficial in most of industrial environment.
Field of view, or how much the camera can physically see in a single frame. Area scan cameras, on the other hand, are available with different lenses so that users can modify their field of view depending upon what is required for a given application. For instance, in agricultural research a large field of view has been reported to provide efficient coverage for vast crop areas([Agricultural Imaging Solutions(2024)]).
Area scan cameras are also renowned for their high build quality and environmental robustness. Some models, designed to be rugged enough for things like industrial use and in extreme conditions (e.g. high temperature or dust), A 2024 industry report by Vision Systems Design, said ruggedized cameras are critical to anything working in a difficult environment with challenging conditions (typically manufacturing plants).
These characteristics are important for anyone who wants to dip his or her feet into the features of area scan camera. Whether it be the high resolution and frame rate or sensor type, even its connectivity options add up to make a difference in S1H's application.