What is the Industrial Camera Link Cable? The Industrial Camera Link Cable is a high-performance data transmission cable specifically designed for connecting industrial cameras to frame grabbers or image processing systems in machine vision and automation applications. It provides a high-speed, reliable interface for transferring large amounts of image data with minimal latency.
(PRUnderground) July 1st, 2025
What is the Industrial Camera Link Cable?
The Industrial Camera Link Cable is a high-performance data transmission cable specifically designed for connecting industrial cameras to frame grabbers or image processing systems in machine vision and automation applications. It provides a high-speed, reliable interface for transferring large amounts of image data with minimal latency.
Key Characteristics of Industrial Camera Link Cables:
1. Purpose-Built for Machine Vision
Enables real-time transfer of high-resolution images from industrial cameras to computers or processing units.
Commonly used in automated inspection, robotics, medical imaging, and scientific research.
2. High-Speed Data Transmission
Supports Camera Link standard (Base, Medium, Full, or 80-bit configurations).
Base configuration: Up to 2.04 Gbps (4 data pairs).
Full configuration: Up to 6.8 Gbps (12 data pairs).
3. Robust & Industrial-Grade Design
Shielded twisted pairs (STP) are used to prevent electromagnetic interference (EMI).
Durable connectors (MDR-26 or HD-26) for secure connections in harsh environments.
Resistant to vibrations, dust, and temperature variations.
4. Reliable Over Long Distances
Standard lengths: 1m to 10m (longer distances may require repeaters).
Low signal loss due to high-quality shielding.
Camera Link vs. Other Vision Cables:
| Feature | Camera Link | GigE Vision | USB3 Vision | CoaXPress |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Max Speed | Up to 6.8 Gbps | ~1 Gbps (GigE) / 10 Gbps (10GigE) | Up to 5 Gbps | Up to 12.5 Gbps per lane |
| Latency | Very Low | Moderate | Low | Very Low |
| Max Distance | Up to 10m (longer with repeaters) | Up to 100m (with Ethernet) | Up to 5m (active USB) | Up to 100m+ |
| Industrial Use | High (factory automation, medical) | Moderate (general vision) | Moderate (lab/light industrial) | High (high-speed imaging) |
Common Applications:
Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) – PCB, semiconductor, and manufacturing quality control.
Medical & Scientific Imaging – Microscopy, X-ray, and high-speed cameras.
Robotics & Automation – Real-time vision-guided robotics.
Traffic & Surveillance – License plate recognition, high-speed monitoring.
Connector Types:
1. MDR-26 (26-pin Micro-D Ribbon) – Most common for standard Camera Link.
2. HD-26 (High-Density 26-pin) – Compact alternative.
Buying Considerations:
1. Check compatibility with your camera and frame grabber.
2. Choose the right configuration (Base/Medium/Full) based on bandwidth needs.
3. Ensure proper shielding if operating near motors or high-EMI sources.
MDR 26P to SDR 26Pin Industrial Camera Link Cable
SDR 26P to SDR 26Pin Industrial Camera Link Cable
USB 3.0 Micro-B Industrial Camera Link Cable
USB 2.0 Type A to B Industrial Camera Link 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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