Machine Vision

Machine Vision Camera Terminology

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Introduction

Machine vision systems are the backbone of modern industrial automation—powering inspection, measurement, and quality control across industries like pharmaceuticals, electronics, and packaging.

However, selecting the right camera can be confusing due to technical jargon like resolution, pixel size, frame rate, dynamic range, and more.

This guide simplifies all essential machine vision camera terminology so you can make informed decisions—especially for high-precision applications like foil inspection, PCB inspection, and defect detection systems.

1. Sensor Types: Area Scan vs Line Scan

Area Scan Camera

  • Captures a full image in one frame
  • Best for static or slow-moving objects

Line Scan Camera

  • Captures one line at a time
  • Ideal for continuous processes (e.g., web, foil, paper)

2. Resolution & Pixel Concepts

  • Resolution (e.g., 1920×1080)
  • Pixel size (µm)
  • Spatial resolution (mm/pixel)
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