Cameras with DSP coprocessors offer multiple options

Three new smart cameras from National Instruments (NI 1744, NI 1762, and NI 1764) deliver faster processing speed, higher image resolution, and more powerful options for embedded machine vision applications than previous models.

By Control Engineering Staff November 27, 2008

National Instruments offers three new smart cameras

Three new smart cameras from National Instruments —NI 1744, NI 1762, and NI 1764—deliver faster processing speed, higher image resolution, and more powerful options for embedded machine vision applications than previous models. Powered by a 533 MHz PowerPC, Model NI 1744 features a high-resolution image sensor that acquires images up to 1.3 MP. It can be used to inspect objects for smaller defects and make measurements with four times the resolution of previous NI smart cameras.For higher performance for pattern matching, optical character recognition, and code reading, Model NI 1762 offers a 720 MHz Texas Instruments DSP coprocessor alongside the 533 MHz PowerPC to run algorithms up to four times faster with no changes to the application software.Model NI 1764 offers the highest resolution and performance of the three, featuring a 1.3-MP image sensor and a 720-MHz Texas Instruments DSP coprocessor. It is intended for high-speed manufacturing line applications.Cameras come with NI Vision Builder for automated inspection (AI), an interactive software environment for configuring and deploying machine vision applications without programming. They may also integrate with NI LabView software and the NI library of image processing and machine vision algorithms.Also read:

Machine Vision Comes of Age

and see Machine Vision Resource Guide below.– Edited by Jeanine Katzel , consulting editor Control Engineering News Desk Register here .

Machine vision online resource guide

Machine Vision Comes of Age

How should control engineers use machine vision?

On Track with Machine Vision for application examples

Machine Vision: Now is the Time (Product Research article, products)

Machine Vision Product Research May 2007 (Survey results in Resource Center; registration required)

Machine Vision: Not Just for Metrology Anymore (robotics applications)

Measure Up with Machine Vision (tricks and tips, references, setup hints)

Buyer’s guide search on machine vision

Automation Integrator Guide contains companies with machine vision expertise .www.controleng.com/integrators

Latest Control Engineering products, news, articles on machine vision