Barcode scanning systems require a high-speed, high-accuracy camera solution capable of capturing high-quality images in dynamic environments. Otherwise, even minute inaccuracies can lead to costly mistakes.
That’s why e-con Systems’ latest camera, See3CAM_37CUGM, comes with cutting-edge features for enabling accuracy and flexibility during real-time operations. This monochrome camera features the Sony® Pregius S™ IMX900 image sensor and is powered by TintE ISP.
In this blog, you’ll learn about the key camera features of e-con Systems’ Sony IMX900-powered See3CAM_37CUGM that make a perfect imaging solution for barcode scanning systems.
Key Features of See3CAM_37CUGM for Efficient Barcode Scanning
e-con Systems’ See3CAM_37CUGM meets the demands of barcode scanning, offering several advantages. For example, its compatibility with a wide range of lenses ensures optimal performance across different scanning distances and angles, from compact retail counters to large-scale sorting centers. The compact and lightweight design supports the development of space-saving barcode scanners, making it suitable for fixed and mobile solutions. Also, the camera minimizes sensitivity to misalignment, simplifying calibration and reducing production complexities for manufacturers.
Now, let’s look at the crucial features of See3CAM_37CUGM for barcode scanning.
Global shutter for motion blur-free capture
Barcode scanners deployed in conveyor belt systems, warehouse automation, and high-speed checkout lanes must capture images in real time without motion blur. e-con Systems’ See3CAM_37CUGM leverages global shutter technology, which captures the entire frame simultaneously, preventing distortions commonly seen with rolling shutter cameras. So, clear, undistorted barcode images, even when objects move rapidly, can be extracted.
High frame rate
Barcode scanning may involve capturing multiple frames in quick succession to ensure accuracy, particularly in high-speed sorting and logistics operations. e-con Systems’ See3CAM_37CUGM achieves a suitable high frame rate by combining multiple frames captured at microsecond intervals.
This enhances barcode readability by capturing high quality images without any motion blur in less time, reducing the likelihood of scanning failures in fast-moving environments.
Superior image quality
Barcode readability often depends on how well a camera can handle variations in lighting. Sudden shifts in brightness caused by overhead lights, shadows, or reflections can compromise scan accuracy. e-con Systems’ See3CAM_37CUGM maintains high-quality imaging even when lighting angles change so that barcodes are consistently captured with clarity.
Fast auto-exposure for dynamic lighting conditions
Lighting inconsistencies in barcode scanning environments can lead to incorrect reads. For instance, packages of different sizes and colors move in rapid succession on a conveyor belt. Hence, when a dark-colored package appears, the camera increases exposure to capture the barcode accurately. However, if a white package follows, conventional cameras may take time to readjust, leading to scanning delays. e-con Systems’ See3CAM_37CUGM eliminates this lag with fast auto-exposure. It minimizes settling time, thereby enabling rapid barcode detection without interruptions.
High dynamic range for handling reflective surfaces
Barcode scanning on reflective surfaces presents a major challenge, as glare and varying light intensities can obscure critical details. Such issues are prevalent in warehouses, logistics hubs, and outdoor environments where barcodes are printed on glossy packaging, plastic wraps, or metal surfaces.
e-con Systems’ See3CAM_37CUGM addresses this problem with its Quad HDR function, which processes RAW sensor data through an FPGA to deliver up to 120 dB dynamic range. By capturing and combining data from four adjacent pixels, this mode enhances visibility in high-contrast settings, such as bright warehouse docks or tunnels, where reflections interfere with scanning accuracy.
Although Quad HDR mode reduces the resolution to 0.75MP, it improves barcode readability by minimizing glare and ensuring reliable detection even under intense lighting. So, barcodes on reflective materials remain clear, enabling smooth scanning across environments.
Self-trigger for automated image capture
e-con Systems’ See3CAM_37CUGM integrates a self-trigger function that enhances barcode scanning accuracy by automating image capture based on pre-defined conditions. So, it eliminates reliance on external triggers and reduces system complexity while improving responsiveness in high-speed scanning environments.
See3CAM_37CUGM’s self-trigger function operates by defining two distinct regions within the sensor’s effective pixel array: the sensing area and the capturing area. The sensing area monitors pixel intensity levels, and when the number of pixels exceeding the level threshold surpasses the count threshold, a trigger event is generated. Once triggered, the camera captures an image from the capturing area, ensuring that barcode data is recorded at the precise moment conditions are met.
Then, it becomes easy to configure one sensing area and one capturing area, setting independent exposure and gain parameters for each. Such granular control optimizes barcode scanning in environments where lighting conditions or object positions fluctuate. Also, the sensing frame output can be turned on or off as needed, providing further flexibility in barcode scanning workflows.
Image fine-tuning for accurate barcode detection
Unlike traditional cameras that rely solely on sensor capabilities, e-con Systems’ See3CAM_37CUGM integrates an FPGA-based image processing, optimizing barcode capture even further. This on-board processing ensures rapid exposure control and gain adjustments while maintaining image clarity.
The auto exposure and auto gain functions dynamically adapt to varying conditions, preventing underexposure in dim settings and overexposure in bright areas. Hence, the camera maintains high-speed performance by handling these adjustments at the hardware level – without increasing the processing load on external systems.
See3CAM_37CUGM: A Cutting-Edge Sony IMX900 Camera by e-con Systems
Since 2003, e-con Systems has been designing, developing, and manufacturing OEM cameras. See3CAM_37CUGM is our latest Global shutter HDR camera based on the Sony IMX900 sensor. It has the distinction of being the first global shutter USB camera based on the Sony IMX900 sensor with built-in HDR support!
View our Camera Selector Page to check out our complete portfolio.
If you need help finding and leveraging the perfect camera solution for your embedded vision application, please write to camerasolutions@e-consystems.com.
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.