Vision Systems

Choosing Vision Systems components

A vision system is a packaged unit: replacing one means replacing a configuration that has been tuned over time. Even with the right model on hand, the application program, image references, and PLC handshake all carry forward only if the replacement matches the original closely enough.

Specs to confirm before ordering:

Exact system model and option codes — In-Sight 7900 vs. 7905 vs. 7910 differ in resolution, frame rate, and lens variant
Lens included or separate — and whether the system supports auto-focus or fixed-focus only
Built-in lighting vs. external lighting requirement
Communication: Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Modbus TCP, RS-232, discrete I/O
Number of supported tools or inspections per cycle
Software version and license — VisionPro and similar high-end packages require a license dongle or activation
Job file (application program) availability and version

Common gotchas: vision system job files are version-locked. A job created in In-Sight Explorer 5.5 may not load on a system running 5.7 firmware without conversion, and downgrading firmware is often not allowed. Cognex In-Sight 7000-series and 8000-series share appearance but use different application software workflows. Some Keyence systems require the original CV-X or XG-X controller for the camera head to function — the head is not standalone. Lighting controllers and strobe controllers are often part-number matched to the lighting unit.

Typical applications: 100% inspection of stamped parts for dimensional defects, label and lot-code verification with OCR/OCV, robot guidance for bin picking and depalletizing, and serial-number readback on populated PCBs. On legacy vision cells, replacing the entire system is sometimes simpler than replacing one component out of a matched set — but only if the application has been documented and can be re-deployed.

For obsolete vision system controllers and camera heads, request a quote with the OEM number.

Will my saved vision job load on a replacement system?

If the model, firmware version, and software version match, yes. Across versions, the job file usually needs conversion in the OEM software — and conversion is not always lossless. We will state firmware and software version on the unit before purchase.

Can you source obsolete Cognex and Keyence vision systems?

Yes. Earlier In-Sight 5xxx series, In-Sight 7000 first generations, CV-3000/5000, and FZ4 controllers are part of regular sourcing. Send the OEM number.

Is a software license included?

For systems with embedded software (most smart-camera systems), yes — the license travels with the hardware. For PC-based systems like VisionPro, the license is separate and tied to a dongle or activation code; confirm before purchase.

Does the camera head work without the original controller?

For Keyence CV-X and XG-X, no — the head requires the matched controller. For Cognex In-Sight, the system is self-contained. Other brands vary; we will note dependencies on each listing.

How are these shipped?

From St. Louis in original or equivalent protective packaging. Free US shipping over $50, international over $350. Multi-camera systems may ship in multiple cartons.

What is the warranty?

12 months functional warranty on the system hardware. Application performance with a customer-specific job is not warranted — that is a function of the inspection setup, not the device.

ifm efector O2D220 Object Detection Sensor

ifm efector O3D303 Time-of-Flight 3D Camera

ifm efector O3X100 Time-of-Flight 3D Camera

Keyence CA-035C Environment-resistant 0.31 megapixel camera (Color)

Keyence CA-035M Environment-resistant 0.31 megapixel camera (Monochrome)

Keyence CA-200M Environment-resistant 2 megapixel camera (Monochrome)

Keyence CA-AD1 For Add-in SD card

Keyence CA-CH3BE Flex-resistant cable (Extension 3m)

Keyence CA-CM20 Camera

Keyence CA-DQW12M White Multi-angle Light (Square)

Keyence CA-DRB10F Blue Ring Light (Direct, Flat type) 100-50

Keyence CA-DRB4F Blue Ring Light (Direct, Flat type) 43-15

Keyence CA-DRB9 Blue Direct Ring Light 90-50

Keyence CA-DRM20PA Multi-Spectrum Lighting Polarization Attachment 200 mm

Keyence CA-DRR10F Red Ring Light (Direct, Flat type) 100-50

Keyence CA-DRR4F Red Ring Light (Direct, Flat type) 43-15

Can't Find The Part You Need?