What are PC-based vision systems?

The most traditional machine vision systems are governed by an industrial computer or PLC that manages and communicates with all the peripheral devices, including cameras, optics and lighting, and quickly analyses the captured information using machine vision software. In these types of vision systems, the camera captures the image created by the optics, converts it into an electronic and then digital image, and transmits it to the industrial computer. The image is then fed to the software installed on the computer, which is used to analyze all acquired images and extract all the information needed to perform the tasks required by the application. Once the image is analyzed the feedback from the analysis can be given back to the PLC for a variety of control options.

PC-based systems are recommended for all kinds of machine vision applications, from entry level to very advanced, but they are particularly useful for complex applications that require more advanced inspection algorithms or feature multiple inspection tasks that must be carried out at extremely fast rates. The unmatched flexibility and computational power of PC-based vision systems are what has made them the standard, default approach for the machine vision industry.