HIKROBOT MV-CL042-91CM 4k Industrial Line Scan Camera, Monochrome

The HIKROBOT MV-CL042-91CM is a high-resolution monochrome industrial line scan camera designed for demanding machine vision applications. Its 4k resolution and advanced features enable precise inspection, measurement, and positioning in automated production lines. This industrial line scan camera is crucial for tasks requiring detailed imaging and rapid data acquisition, addressing the need for reliable component identification and quality control in modern manufacturing.

Product Type & Category Positioning

The HIKROBOT MV-CL042-91CM is specifically categorized as a high-resolution, monochrome industrial line scan camera. Unlike area scan cameras that capture a 2D image all at once, line scan cameras capture a single line of an image at a time and build a complete image as the object moves past. This makes them ideal for inspecting continuous moving objects or for applications where very high resolution is required in one dimension. The MV-CL042-91CM, with its 4K resolution, offers exceptional detail in the scan line, making it suitable for inspecting fine features or for high-speed applications where a wide field of view is not the primary concern. Its designation as an "industrial" camera signifies its robust design, built to withstand harsh manufacturing environments, and its compatibility with industrial communication protocols like Camera Link for high-speed, reliable data transfer.

Technical Specifications

Resolution: 4096 × 2

Sensor Type: CMOS

Pixel Size: 7 μm

Max. Line Rate: 100 kHz (Mono 8)

Configuration Mode: Base, Medium, Full, 80-bit

Tap Geometry: 1X, 1X2, 1X4, 1X8, 1X10

Tap Number: 1 Tap, 2 Taps, 4 Taps, 8 Taps, 10 Taps

Pixel Clock: 40 MHz, 60 MHz, 70 MHz, 85 MHz

Dynamic Range: 65.6 dB

SNR: 40 dB

Gain: Supports 1.0 ×, 1.4 ×, 1.6 ×, 2.4 ×, 3.2 ×

Exposure Time: 5 μs to 10 ms

Exposure Mode: Off/Once/Continuous exposure mode; supports fixed time exposure, trigger-width exposure

Pixel Format: Mono 8

Binning: Supports 1 × 1, 1 × 2, 1 × 4, 2 × 1, 2 × 2, 2 × 4, 4 × 1, 4 × 2, 4 × 4

Data Interface: Camera Link (SDR connector); USB interface for firmware updates

Power Supply: 12 VDC - 24 VDC

Power Consumption: Typ. 5.5 W@12 VDC

Operating Temperature: -20°C to 55°C

Lens Mount: M42*1, optical back focal length: 12 mm (0.5")

Technical Highlights

Structure or Electrical Design Value

The MV-CL042-91CM features a compact design and flexible installation options, making it adaptable to various industrial settings. Its M42*1 lens mount with an optical back focal length of 12 mm (0.5") allows for compatibility with a range of F-mount, C-mount, and other lens types via adapters, offering optical flexibility. The Camera Link interface ensures high-speed and reliable data transfer, which is critical for industrial environments where data integrity and low latency are paramount. Additionally, the camera supports bi-directional I/O wiring for flexible input and output settings, further enhancing its integration capabilities within automated systems.

Performance and Reliability Value

This camera boasts a maximum line rate of 100 kHz in Mono 8 mode, enabling high-speed image acquisition crucial for inspecting fast-moving objects or processes. The 7 μm pixel size contributes to its ability to capture fine details, while the dynamic range of 65.6 dB and SNR of 40 dB ensure good image quality even in challenging lighting conditions. Furthermore, the camera operates within a wide temperature range of -20°C to 55°C, indicating its robust design for reliable performance in typical industrial environments.

Application Scenarios   High-Speed Web Inspection: The camera's maximum line rate of 100 kHz allows for the inspection of materials moving at high speeds, such as paper, textiles, or films, to detect defects in real-time. This ensures consistent quality control for continuous production processes, reducing waste and improving efficiency.   Print and Packaging Verification: With its 4k resolution and precise imaging capabilities, the MV-CL042-91CM is ideal for verifying the quality of printing on packaging, detecting subtle imperfections, misalignments, or missing elements. This application ensures brand integrity and compliance with packaging standards, minimizing costly recalls.   Electronics Manufacturing Inspection: In the production of printed circuit boards (PCBs) or other electronic components, the camera's high resolution enables the detection of minute defects, such as solder joint quality, component placement, and surface anomalies. This leads to higher yields and more reliable electronic devices.   Automated Quality Control: The camera can be integrated into automated quality control systems for various manufacturing processes, performing precise measurements and inspections of manufactured parts. Its ability to capture detailed images contributes to enhanced product quality and reduced manual inspection efforts.

Selection Recommendations

Suitable Scenario: The HIKROBOT MV-CL042-91CM is highly suitable for applications requiring very high resolution along the scan line, such as detailed surface inspection, precise measurement of small features, or code reading on moving objects where clarity is paramount. Its 4k resolution and 100 kHz max line rate make it ideal for inspecting items moving at up to approximately 700 mm/s (assuming a typical 70 mm scanning width and 100 kHz line rate).   Unsuitable Scenario: This camera is less suitable for applications requiring extremely wide fields of view in a single capture or for inspecting stationary objects where an area scan camera might be more efficient. For instance, it would not be the optimal choice for capturing a full overhead view of a large assembly on a static conveyor belt due to its line scan nature.

Comparison with Related Models: For applications demanding even higher line rates for faster moving objects, the MV-CL042-91CM-V2 offers a maximum line rate of 195 kHz, representing an upgrade path for speed-critical tasks.

FAQ

1.What is the maximum line rate of the HIKROBOT MV-CL042-91CM in a standard configuration?

The maximum line rate for the MV-CL042-91CM in Mono 8 mode is 100 kHz,enabling continuous imaging at conveyor speeds up to 10 m/s with 4096 pixels per line at 7μm pixel size.This high line rate minimizes motion blur and ensures that even fast-moving defects or micro-features on continuous webs,sheets,or cylindrical surfaces are reliably detected.For applications requiring even higher line rates,the MV-CL042-91CM-V2 model offers up to 195 kHz in Mono 8 mode.Our technical team can help you determine which variant meets your specific conveyor speed and resolution requirements.

2.Can this industrial line scan camera be used with non-HIKROBOT systems?

Yes,the MV-CL042-91CM is fully compatible with the GenICam Standard and Camera Link interface standard,ensuring interoperability with a wide range of third-party machine vision software and frame grabbers from manufacturers such as Euresys,Imperx,and Matrox.All camera parameters—including line rate,exposure time,gain,and trigger mode—are accessible through standardized GenICam nodes across different software platforms without requiring proprietary drivers.For custom integration support,our team can provide configuration files and sample code to accelerate integration with your existing vision infrastructure.

3.What are the environmental operating conditions for this 4K line scan camera?

The MV-CL042-91CM is rated for an operating temperature range of-20°C to 55°C,with storage capability from-30°C to 70°C when not powered.This wide temperature tolerance makes it suitable for demanding industrial environments such as steel mills,lumber processing facilities,and outdoor logistics hubs where temperature fluctuations are common.The camera‘s ruggedized housing provides protection against shock and vibration during operation.For installations approaching the 55°C upper limit,we recommend ensuring adequate airflow around the camera housing to prevent localized overheating.For applications requiring operation below-20°C,consult our technical team for specific environmental adaptation recommendations.

4.How does the pixel size of 7μm affect image quality for inspection tasks?

The 7μm×7μm pixel size of the MV-CL042-91CM is the key enabler for both high line rate(100 kHz)and high resolution(4096 pixels per line)in a single sensor architecture—a balance often not achievable in smaller-pixel designs with comparable sensitivity.Compared to smaller pixel sizes(e.g.,5μm or 3.45μm),the 7μm photodiode provides deeper photon capture,yielding higher dynamic range and better signal-to-noise ratio under short exposure times.This means the camera maintains image quality even at very short exposure times,which directly reduces false positives in defect detection and supports accurate measurement of fine features on moving objects.However,the larger pixel also means the sensor has a narrower vertical field of view—for a typical object height of 200 mm,the 7μm pixel captures approximately 18 mm of vertical coverage versus 10 mm with a 3.45μm pixel at the same magnification—making this model better suited for applications prioritizing speed over vertical coverage.

5.What is the typical lead time for the HIKROBOT MV-CL042-91CM?

We offer two delivery tracks for the MV-CL042-91CM:standard dispatch at 2 to 4 business days,or priority logistics that reduces total delivery time to 2 to 3 business days depending on your destination.Through our global logistics partnerships with DHL and FedEx,we can commit to time-definite delivery for mission-critical installations.For projects requiring production-line integration on a fixed date,our logistics team can schedule delivery within a specific 24-hour window to align with your deployment schedule.

6.Does this camera support external trigger inputs for synchronization?

Yes,the MV-CL042-91CM supports trigger-width exposure and external trigger signals via the Camera Link interface and the Hirose 12-pin connector,enabling precise synchronization with external encoders or PLC outputs.This trigger capability is critical for line scan applications,as it allows the camera to acquire lines precisely synchronized with the movement of the object or the conveyor,ensuring that the resulting 2D image maintains consistent aspect ratio without geometric distortion.The camera accepts both differential(RS-422)and single-ended trigger inputs,providing compatibility with most industrial encoders.For high-speed applications,we recommend using differential triggers to minimize jitter and ensure consistent line-to-line positioning accuracy.

7.What is the warranty period for the HIKROBOT MV-CL042-91CM?

Beijing Zhongping Technology provides a 24-month manufacturer‘s warranty for the MV-CL042-91CM covering defects in materials and workmanship under normal operating conditions,starting from the date of installation or 30 months from the date of shipment,whichever occurs first.The warranty covers sensor defects,electronic component failures,and mechanical issues arising from manufacturing faults,but excludes damage from improper power supply,electrostatic discharge,physical impact,or exposure to conditions beyond the camera’s rated specifications.For warranty claims,RMA processing,or technical support,contact our support team with your purchase order number and installation date—we handle the full returns process including shipping coordination and replacement arrangement.

8.Can the HIKROBOT MV-CL042-91CM be used for color inspection tasks?

No,the MV-CL042-91CM is a monochrome camera and is therefore not suitable for applications where color information is essential for identification,sorting,or inspection tasks.The monochrome sensor captures images in shades of gray and is best suited for applications such as dimensional measurement,surface defect detection(scratches,cracks,and dents),barcode reading,and high-contrast imaging where grayscale variations are the primary information carriers.For color-dependent tasks such as inspecting printed labels,detecting color contaminants on food products,or sorting materials by color,we recommend the color variant(MV-CL042-91CC)or other Hikrobot color line scan cameras.Our technical team can help evaluate whether monochrome or color is optimal for your specific application.

9.What are the data transfer interfaces supported by this model?

The MV-CL042-91CM primarily utilizes the Camera Link Base interface,delivering a sustained bandwidth of up to 255 MB/s for transferring line data at 100 kHz with 4096 pixels per line in Mono 8 format.This high bandwidth is essential for processing the large volumes of line data generated in continuous web inspections,ensuring that no lines are dropped during operation.The camera also includes a USB 2.0 interface dedicated to firmware updates and configuration,simplifying maintenance without requiring a separate programming device.For systems without a Camera Link frame grabber,compatible PCIe frame grabbers from Euresys,Matrox,or Imperx are recommended.

10.What upgrade path is available if this model does not fully meet my requirements?

If the MV-CL042-91CM does not fully meet your requirements,Hikrobot offers a broad range of CL series line scan cameras with alternative specifications.For higher line rates,the MV-CL042-91CM-V2 offers up to 195 kHz in Mono 8 mode,providing nearly double the speed for ultra-high-speed web inspection applications.For wider field of view applications requiring more than 4096 pixels per line,the MV-CL080-91CM offers 8K resolution with a maximum line rate of 50 kHz.For applications requiring different interface options,Hikrobot provides CoaXPress and GigE Vision line scan models within the same CL series portfolio.Our technical team can assess your specific requirements—including conveyor speed,required resolution,and material type—to recommend the optimal camera model for your application.Contact us with your inspection parameters for a personalized recommendation.