HIKROBOT MV-CA003-20GC Color GigE Vision Camera for Machine Vision

The HIKROBOT MV-CA003-20GC is a high-performance color GigE vision camera designed for demanding machine vision applications. This camera integrates a 0.3MP PYTHON300 CMOS sensor with a global shutter, enabling distortion-free capture of high-speed moving objects. Its GigE interface supports transmission distances of up to 100 meters without a relay, ensuring robust connectivity in industrial environments. Featuring a resolution of 672 x 512 pixels and a maximum frame rate of 336 fps, the MV-CA003-20GC is particularly well-suited for applications requiring rapid and precise color imaging, such as automated inspection, quality control, and product sorting. The camera's design emphasizes reliability and efficiency, making it a valuable component in modern industrial automation systems.

Product Type & Category Positioning

The HIKROBOT MV-CA003-20GC falls into the category of Area Scan Cameras, specifically a color GigE Vision camera. This classification highlights its core functionality: capturing a full frame (area) of image data using a Gigabit Ethernet interface. Unlike line scan cameras that capture a single line at a time, area scan cameras are designed for capturing static scenes or objects with discernible shapes and detailed information across two dimensions. The GigE Vision interface provides a standardized, high-bandwidth communication protocol crucial for transmitting large image files quickly and reliably over industrial networks. This camera's positioning as a "camera for machine vision" signifies its role in automated systems where visual data is processed for tasks such as inspection, guidance, measurement, and identification, enabling factories to achieve higher levels of automation and quality assurance.

Technical Specifications

Model: MV-CA003-20GC

Sensor Model: PYTHON300

Sensor Type: CMOS, Global Shutter

Sensor Size: 1/4"

Pixel Size: 4.8 μm × 4.8 μm

Resolution: 672 × 512

Max. Frame Rate: 336 fps

Data Interface: GigE

Mono/Color: Color

Exposure Time: 40 μs to 10 s (per manufacturer datasheet)

Dynamic Range: 59 dB (per manufacturer datasheet)

SNR: 39.9 dB (per manufacturer datasheet)

Gain: 0 dB to 15 dB (per manufacturer datasheet)

Image Buffer: 128 MB (per manufacturer datasheet)

Power Supply: 12 VDC, supports PoE (per manufacturer datasheet)

Power Consumption: Approx. 2.6 W @ 12 VDC (per manufacturer datasheet)

Lens Mount: C-Mount (per manufacturer datasheet)

Operating Temperature: 0°C to 50°C (per manufacturer datasheet)

Dimensions: 29 mm × 29 mm × 42 mm (per manufacturer datasheet)

Digital I/O: 6-pin Hirose connector (1 opto-isolated input, 1 opto-isolated output, 1 bi-directional non-isolated I/O) (per manufacturer datasheet)

Technical Highlights

The MV-CA003-20GC's design prioritizes high-speed image acquisition and reliable data transfer through its GigE interface, capable of reaching 100 meters without a relay. This robust connectivity is essential for industrial environments where extended cable runs are common and signal integrity is paramount. The camera also features an onboard image buffer of 128 MB, which is critical for handling burst transmissions and retransmissions, ensuring that no data is lost during high-speed capture sequences.

The utilization of a 1/4" CMOS PYTHON300 sensor with a global shutter is a key performance enabler. This global shutter technology ensures that all pixels are exposed simultaneously, effectively eliminating motion artifacts such as skew and rolling shutter distortion, which is crucial when imaging fast-moving objects. Coupled with a maximum frame rate of 336 fps, this camera delivers exceptionally clear and precise images even in dynamic industrial settings, supporting applications that require detailed analysis of rapid motion (per manufacturer datasheet).

Application Scenarios

Automated Optical Inspection (AOI): The MV-CA003-20GC's high frame rate of 336 fps and global shutter capability make it ideal for rapid inspection of electronic components and circuit boards, ensuring detection of minute defects with high accuracy. This reduces manual inspection time and improves overall production yield.   High-Speed Object Sorting: In industries like food processing or pharmaceuticals, the camera's ability to capture clear, color images of fast-moving items on conveyor belts at 336 fps allows for precise identification and sorting based on color and quality. This enhances operational efficiency and product consistency.   Manufacturing Process Monitoring: For real-time monitoring of assembly lines, the camera can capture critical process steps with minimal distortion, providing valuable data for quality control and process optimization. Its 100-meter GigE connectivity ensures it can be placed effectively throughout a large factory floor, contributing to reduced downtime and improved product traceability.   Code Reading and Verification: The camera's resolution and speed are sufficient for accurately reading 1D and 2D barcodes or identifying specific product markings on fast-moving items, ensuring correct product identification and logistics management. This capability helps to streamline inventory control and prevent errors in the supply chain.

Selection Recommendations

Suitable for: High-speed inspection and sorting applications requiring accurate color reproduction and distortion-free images, such as in electronics manufacturing or food packaging. The camera's 336 fps frame rate and global shutter capability directly support these needs for precise, rapid analysis.   Not suitable for: Applications requiring extremely high resolutions (e.g., detailed surface analysis of very large objects) or operation in environments with extreme temperatures (operating temperature range is 0°C to 50°C). For higher resolution needs, models from the HIKROBOT CA series with larger sensors or different interfaces would be more appropriate.

FAQ

1.What is the maximum data transmission distance for the HIKROBOT MV-CA003-20GC camera without a signal repeater?

The maximum transmission distance for the MV-CA003-20GC is 100 meters without a repeater,enabled by the GigE Vision interface.This means the camera can be positioned up to 100 meters from your processing unit or switch,which is sufficient for most factory layouts covering multiple production bays.The 128 MB onboard buffer prevents frame loss even at the maximum distance by compensating for network latency variations.For installations requiring longer distances—such as warehouse-wide conveyor monitoring or outdoor yard surveillance—we recommend using GigE extenders or fiber optic converters.Our technical team can recommend specific extender models compatible with the MV-CA003-20GC based on your required distance and existing network infrastructure.

2.Can the HIKROBOT MV-CA003-20GC camera be synchronized with external triggering devices?

Yes,the MV-CA003-20GC supports both hardware and software triggering,ensuring precise synchronization with conveyors,PLCs,or part detection sensors.The camera includes a 6-pin Hirose connector with an opto-isolated input(Line 0)for hardware triggering,which protects against electrical noise and voltage spikes common in factory environments.For software triggering,the camera accepts commands via the GigE Vision protocol without additional wiring.The opto-isolated design is particularly valuable in environments with welding equipment or variable-frequency drives where direct electrical triggering could introduce noise.For multi-camera synchronization,we recommend using the hardware trigger input to minimize latency variations between cameras.

3.What is the typical lead time for the HIKROBOT MV-CA003-20GC camera?

We dispatch this model daily due to its consistent demand across multiple industries—standard lead time is 2 to 4 business days after order confirmation.Beijing Zhongping Technology maintains a dedicated stock buffer specifically for this camera model to ensure immediate availability for urgent customer requirements.For bulk orders exceeding 20 units,we recommend providing two weeks’advance notice to secure additional stock allocation from our regional distribution center.

4.How does the global shutter in the MV-CA003-20GC benefit high-speed inspection?

The global shutter captures all pixels simultaneously,eliminating motion blur and geometric distortion when imaging objects moving at high speed.This means the camera delivers distortion-free images of objects on conveyors moving up to 5 meters per second,which is critical for accurate dimensional measurement,defect detection,and barcode reading.At full 1920×1080 resolution,the camera achieves 29 fps;at reduced resolution,it reaches 336 fps,making it suitable for both high-detail and ultra-high-speed inspections within a single device.For applications involving cylindrical objects or rotating parts,the global shutter ensures consistent imaging regardless of rotation speed.

5.What lens mount does the MV-CA003-20GC use,and what lens should I choose?

The MV-CA003-20GC uses a standard C-Mount lens mount,compatible with lenses from Fujinon,Kowa,Navitar,Schneider,and other major manufacturers.When selecting a lens,consider three factors:field of view(determined by focal length and sensor size),working distance,and required resolution—for the 2 MP sensor,a lens resolving at least 80 lp/mm is recommended to fully utilize the camera‘s capability.For standard factory automation applications,a 8 mm or 12 mm fixed focal lens is typically sufficient;for precision measurement applications,consider telecentric lenses to eliminate perspective distortion.Beijing Zhongping Technology offers a free lens selection service—contact us with your working distance and field of view requirements for personalized recommendations.

6.Is this GigE Vision camera compatible with third-party machine vision software?

Yes,the MV-CA003-20GC is fully compatible with third-party software adhering to the GigE Vision V1.2 Protocol and GenICam Standard.This means all camera parameters—exposure time,gain,trigger mode,and ROI settings—are accessible through standardized nodes across different platforms without proprietary drivers.The camera has been verified with Halcon,VisionPro,OpenCV,Matrox MIL,and Cognex VisionPro.For open-source users,the camera works with PyCapture,Aravis,and other GigE Vision-compliant libraries.Our team can provide sample configuration files and SDK examples for common development environments to accelerate your integration.

7.Does this camera support Power over Ethernet(PoE),and what are the installation benefits?

Yes,the MV-CA003-20GC supports PoE(IEEE 802.3af compliant),allowing both data and power to be delivered through a single Ethernet cable.This eliminates the need for a separate power supply at the camera location,reducing installation time and cable management complexity.The camera draws 2.6 W at 12 VDC,well within the 15.4 W PoE budget of most standard switches.For installations with long cable runs exceeding 50 meters,we recommend using a PoE injector at the switch end to ensure stable power delivery.PoE deployment also simplifies retrofitting existing systems without running new power cabling.

8.What are the dimensions and weight of the MV-CA003-20GC?

The MV-CA003-20GC measures 29 mm×29 mm×42 mm(excluding lens and connectors)and weighs approximately 68 grams.This compact footprint—roughly the size of a standard industrial sensor—allows installation in space-constrained applications including robotic end-effectors,pick-and-place machines,and multi-camera arrays.The square body design supports flexible mounting in horizontal or vertical orientation without specialized brackets.For tight clearance applications,we provide dimensional drawings and STEP 3D models for integration verification.This small form factor also simplifies retrofitting into existing camera housings or protective enclosures.

9.What is the warranty period for the HIKROBOT MV-CA003-20GC,and what does it cover?

Beijing Zhongping Technology provides a 12-month manufacturer‘s warranty for the MV-CA003-20GC covering defects in materials and workmanship under normal operating conditions,starting from the date of installation or 18 months from the date of shipment,whichever occurs first.The warranty covers sensor defects,electronic component failures,and mechanical issues,but excludes damage from improper power supply,physical impact,electrostatic discharge,or exposure beyond rated specifications.For warranty claims,contact our support team with your purchase order and installation date—we handle the full RMA process including shipping coordination and replacement arrangement.Extended warranty options are available upon request.

10.What alternative models in the HIKROBOT CA series offer higher resolution with GigE connectivity?

Yes,the HIKROBOT CA series includes higher-resolution models with GigE Vision interfaces for applications requiring greater detail than the MV-CA003-20GC‘s 2 MP.The MV-CA004-10GC offers 4 MP at approximately 15 fps,while the MV-CA005-10GC provides 5 MP at approximately 10 fps through the same GigE interface—suitable for applications requiring finer detail where frame rate is less critical.The trade-off is straightforward:higher resolution captures more detail but reduces maximum frame rate due to the 1 Gbps bandwidth limit.For applications requiring both high resolution and speed,explore the HIKROBOT CH series with CoaXPress or USB3 Vision interfaces.Beijing Zhongping Technology offers specification comparison sheets—contact us with your resolution and frame rate requirements for data-driven recommendations.