Digital camera specialist Basler has started series production of its 2k Racer line scan cameras. Their 4k models will follow soon. The cameras have a small footprint, just 56mm wide and 62mm high, have advanced sensor technology that produces excellent images, and are very attractively priced.
Racer cameras are available with either a Gigabit Ethernet or a Camera Link interface. They use the latest line scan sensors based on highly sensitive CMOS technology and reach line rates of up to 48kHz via Gigabit Ethernet and up to 80kHz with the Camera Link interface. Image quality is excellent: the cameras are very sensitive, with low noise characteristics and a quantum efficiency of around 60 per cent. The CMOS sensors use very little power; an innovative heat-dissipation concept allows the cameras to stay much cooler than comparable line scan cameras, and gives a better image as well.
The Camera Link models feature Power over Camera Link (PoCL), with data and power carried by the same cable. This reduces costs for accessories and system complexity, and creates a simpler, more reliable system. In addition, Mini Camera Link accessories are less expensive than regular Camera Link equipment, which allows costs to drop even further, especially in larger systems.
Basler will launch more models with 6, 8, and 12k resolutions at the Vision Stuttgart show in November. With this expanded offering of Racer cameras, Basler covers the whole spectrum of standard line scan cameras. Users from many different markets and applications will easily find cameras for their needs.
