What is the function of the camera cable? The ​primary function of a camera cable​ in industrial and machine vision applications is to ​transmit data, power, and control signals​ between the camera and a host system (like a computer or frame grabber). Here’s a detailed breakdown of its key roles.

(PRUnderground) July 2nd, 2025

What is the function of the camera cable?

The ​primary function of a camera cable​ in industrial and machine vision applications is to ​transmit data, power, and control signals​ between the camera and a host system (like a computer or frame grabber). Here’s a detailed breakdown of its key roles:

​1. High-Speed Image Data Transmission​

Transfers raw image/video data from the camera sensor to a ​frame grabber​ or ​PC​ at high speeds.

Critical for:

Real-time inspection (e.g., production line quality control).

High-speed imaging (e.g., sports analytics, ballistic tracking).

Medical/scientific imaging (e.g., microscopy, X-ray).

​2. Power Delivery (PoE/PoCXP/USB Power)​​

Some cables (like ​Power-over-Ethernet [PoE]​​ or ​Power-over-Coax [PoCXP]​) deliver power to the camera, eliminating the need for a separate power supply.

Used in:

Compact systems (e.g., drones, robotics).

Remote cameras (e.g., traffic monitoring).

​3. Control Signal Communication​

Carries ​trigger signals, ​strobe commands, and ​serial communication​ (e.g., RS-232) to synchronize cameras with external devices.

Enables:

Multi-camera synchronization (e.g., 3D scanning).

Precise timing (e.g., high-speed assembly line triggers).

​4. Industrial Reliability & Noise Immunity​

Shielded designs​ (STP/coaxial) prevent electromagnetic interference (EMI) in factories with motors, welders, or RF noise.

Robust connectors​ (MDR-26, BNC) withstand vibrations, dust, and temperature swings.

​5. Interface-Specific Functions​

​Why Does the Cable Matter?​​

1. Speed & Bandwidth:​​ Affects resolution/frame rate (e.g., 4K@120fps requires CoaXPress or CameraLink HS).

2. Latency:​​ Industrial systems need near-instantaneous data transfer (CameraLink/USB3 <1ms latency).

3. Durability:​​ Factory floors demand ruggedized cables with strain relief.

4. Distance:​​ GigE works at 100m+; CameraLink is limited to 10m without repeaters.

​Example Use Cases​

1. Automotive Inspection:​​ CameraLink cables transmit high-res car parts images to detect defects in real time.

2. Surgical Robotics:​​ CoaXPress delivers 4K video + power to endoscopic cameras.

3. Pharmaceutical Packaging:​​ GigE PoE cables power and connect multiple inspection cameras.

​Need Help Choosing?​​

If you’re unsure which cable suits your camera/system, share

1. Camera model​ (e.g., Basler ace, FLIR Blackfly).

2. Application​ (e.g., factory robot, lab microscope).

3. ​Required resolution/frame rate.

M12 8 Pin X Code to RJ45 Male Industrial Camera Link Cable

M12 8 Pin X Code Industrial Sensor Cable

M12 8 Pin X Code to RJ45 Female Industrial Camera Link Cable

Industrial Camera Power Trigger IO Signal Cable

About Shenzhen STC Electronic Co., Ltd

STC-CABLE is an industry-leading manufacturer of high-performance cabling and connectivity solutions. Founded in 2008, STC provides end-to-end connectivity solutions serving a variety of markets–including corporate, digital signage, education, healthcare, home theater, and hospitality.

As a professional cable assembly factory, STC brings a complete portfolio of products and solutions including USB 2.0 Cables, USB 3.0 Cables, USB C Cables, Drive Cables, Network Cables & Adapters, Audio & Video Cables, Serial & Parallel Cables, Audio-Video Products, Computer power Cables internal and so on.

Leo Zhang
Sales Manager
leo@stccable.com
Tel: (86) 0755 2321 4701
(86) 134 2285 3610
www.stc-cable.com
STC Electronic (Hong Kong) Co., Limited
Shenzhen STC Electronic Co., LTD

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