The Gigabit Ethernet camera innovation offensive is now generating small, easy-to-integrate cameras with low entry level prices. These cameras are increasingly conquering new markets outside of the traditional industrial applications, says Multipix Imaging, machine vision specialist. Due to their cost and size advantages, and driven by constant advancement in their capabilities, cameras with a GigE interface have found their way into new fields such as medical equipment and traffic monitoring systems. At first, camera suppliers were mainly interested in making GigE technology useful for industrial applications, both from a hardware and a software perspective. In a second round of innovation, makers concentrated on expanding the features and functions on the cameras. Cameras of the newest 'third generation' exhibit two main improvements in addition to their advanced functions. First, Power over Ethernet (PoE) capability allows a single cable to carry both power and data. And with a small size and extremely low power consumption comparable to common analog cameras, GigE cameras make a convincing argument. Second, Gigabit Ethernet camera prices have been drastically reduced over the last few years. In comparison to comparable first generation cameras, cost savings of up to 40 per cent can be realised.
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