Ethernet cameras leverage standardized communication protocols, such as TCP/IP and UDP, to transmit image data across networks. Unlike traditional coaxial-connected cameras that leverage analog signal transmission, these cameras digitize and packetize image data for seamless network transmission. Since the data can be accessed and processed by any device within the connected network, it ensures image fidelity while offering enhanced interoperability,
In this blog, you’ll get insights into how Ethernet cameras work, their top features, use cases, and much more.
Role of Ethernet cameras in embedded vision technology
Ethernet cameras are important in embedded vision applications since they are more advanced than their analog predecessors. These cameras facilitate efficient data transfer, integrated system functionalities, and streamlined infrastructure. Their impact can be summarized as given below:
- Simplified infrastructure: The need for separate power cables is eliminated with Ethernet cameras, thanks to Power over Ethernet (PoE) capabilities. It reduces the clutter and complexity of wiring, especially in large embedded vision systems.
- Scalability: Ethernet cameras can be easily added to existing networks, making it convenient for applications to scale as requirements grow.
- Remote accessibility: These cameras can be accessed and controlled remotely over a network, providing flexibility in monitoring and adjustments.
- High bandwidth: Ethernet cameras provide high bandwidth connections, supporting up to 10GiGE and ensuring there will be no issue in transferring uncompressed data.
How do Ethernet cameras work?
Fundamentally, Ethernet cameras operate on the known principle as their counterparts. CMOS sensors capture high-resolution images and videos under various lighting conditions. However, immediately after capturing visual data, the Ethernet camera operates differently.
The captured image or video data is segmented and organized into data packets. This packetization is crucial. Each packet can carry specific data and meta information, such as source, destination, and sequence details. This structure ensures that the data can be correctly sequenced and interpreted.
As their name suggests, Ethernet cameras utilize standard network protocols for data transmission, such as Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) and User Datagram Protocol (UDP).
Top use cases of Ethernet cameras
- Industrial:
Ethernet cameras, with their high bandwidth capabilities and reliable connectivity, are an integral part of business-critical industrial applications. In surround-view systems, they offer a comprehensive 360-degree perspective, capturing key details with minimal latency and enabling machinery operators to rapidly respond to environmental changes.
In inspection and safety devices, these cameras offer precision imaging and fast data transmission rates, ensuring fast detection of product anomalies and potential malfunctions. They help deliver real-time feedback with high-resolution imaging to push for optimal operations a safer industrial setting.
- Retail:
Ethernet cameras ensure superior data transmission rates and reliable connectivity, which has made them the backbone of modern retail solutions. For example, these cameras power autonomous shopping systems to effortlessly track product interactions, registering items as customers select them and consequently, eliminating traditional checkout processes.
Ethernet cameras are also used in shelf monitoring systems, providing high-resolution images to create a real-time feedback mechanism that allows for immediate inventory assessment. Hence, retailers can ensure that stock levels are maintained and discrepancies are rapidly addressed.
- Medical:
Ethernet cameras, with consistent high-speed data transmission and sharp imaging capabilities, have transformed medical applications, especially remote patient monitoring systems. These cameras are placed near the patient, providing clinicians with high-resolution, real-time imaging data.
It allows for accurate assessments of patient conditions and timely interventions. Their capability to transmit uninterrupted, clear imagery ensures that vital signs, wound healing, and even patient movements are monitored precisely. Hence, this leads to informed medical decision-making and improves overall patient care delivery.
- Traffic management:
Ethernet cameras bring robust data transmission and reliable connectivity capabilities to the table for many smart city applications. In traffic management systems, for instance, Ethernet cameras enable high-resolution, real-time imaging – making it easy to dynamically adjust to traffic signals, detect congestion patterns, and identify irregular incidents as quickly as possible.
Their continuous data flow and detailed imaging ensure that traffic flows remain optimized. This goes a long way to reduce congestion and boost roadway safety across smart cities.
Must-have features of Ethernet cameras
Power over Ethernet (PoE)
Power over Ethernet, commonly known as PoE, allows devices to receive power and data over a single Ethernet cable. This methodology utilizes specialized adapters or switches to send a combined signal over Cat5e or Cat6 cables. Integrating PoE into Ethernet cameras significantly reduces installation complexities and costs, as there’s no longer a need for separate power and data cables. Furthermore, PoE standards, like IEEE 802.3af/at, dictate the power delivery mechanisms ensuring safe operation and efficient power management.
High-resolution imaging
Ethernet cameras employ advanced CMOS or CCD sensors and can capture images upwards of 4K (3840×2160 pixels) or even 8K resolutions. Such granular detail is essential for specific vision tasks, including facial recognition, number plate detection, and microscopic imaging.
Onboard image processing
Ethernet cameras are equipped with embedded processors or FPGAs (Field-Programmable Gate Arrays). These onboard computing units enable real-time image analysis, edge processing, and data compression, all within the camera’s hardware envelope. This minimizes latency and reduces the reliance on external systems for initial image processing tasks. Therefore, it improves the entire embedded vision device’s performance.
Low Latency
Low latency is crucial for Ethernet cameras due to the immediate data transfer requirements of many embedded vision applications. When capturing high-resolution images or videos, the minimal delay ensures that systems can process and respond to visual information in real time. It becomes critical where quick action based on camera input is required, such as robotic navigation, machine vision inspection, and high-speed motion capture. With the capacity to support up to 10GiGE, Ethernet cameras minimize data transfer lag and provide steady performance.
Powerful security protocols
Ethernet cameras tend to face potential vulnerability to cyber-attacks as they connect to networks. However, these cameras incorporate security features such as end-to-end encryption protocols, secure boot processes, and regular firmware updates to mitigate such risks. It goes a long way to ensure that data streams remain confidential and unauthorized access attempts are promptly detected and avoided.
Ethernet cameras offered by e-con Systems
With over 20 years of expertise, e-con Systems specializes in designing, developing, and manufacturing advanced GigE cameras tailored for various applications:
RouteCAM_CU25 – This outdoor-ready global shutter GigE camera excels in delivering accurate and fast capture of moving scenes at high frame rate, making it ideal for applications like smart traffic, road safety and law enforcement, and forklift safety.
Learn more about RouteCAM_CU25.
RouteCAM_CU22_IP67 – This rugged IP67-rated HDR Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) camera with IEEE 802.3af compliance is designed for demanding environments. Based on the Sony STARVIS IMX662 1/2.8″ CMOS image sensor, it excels in challenging conditions while maintaining exceptional image clarity.
Read more about RouteCAM_CU22_IP67
RouteCAM_CU20 – This 2MP HDR GigE camera (also IEEE 802.3af compliant), featuring the Sony STARVIS IMX462 sensor, delivers exceptional image quality. Its GigE interface allows seamless video data transfer over cable lengths of up to 100 meters. As an ONVIF-supported camera, it ensures reliable image and control data transmission over a wired LAN network.
These GigE cameras integrate seamlessly with our cutting-edge cloud-based device management platform, CloVis Central™, providing comprehensive remote management of all on-field device operations. This integration facilitates quicker time to market, cost reductions, and improved application success rates. Additionally, these Ethernet camera meets industrial-grade standards and feature PTP synchronization support. This GigE camera’s built-in ISP offers imaging controls – ensuring exceptional image quality. These GigE series cameras are highly customizable, including sensor, form factor, optics, etc.
If you are looking for help integrating this product into your applications, please write to us at camerasolutions@e-consystems.com.
You can also explore our Camera Selector page to view the full portfolio of our products.
Suresh Madhu is the product marketing manager with 16+ years of experience in embedded product design, technical architecture, SOM product design, camera solutions, and product development. He has played an integral part in helping many customers build their products by integrating the right vision technology into them.