Decoding Image Sensor Size: A Buyer’s Guide to Understanding and Calculating Camera Target Size in Industrial Imaging

 

Introduction:

In the intricate world of industrial cameras, the concept of 'target size' or image sensor size is paramount yet often misunderstood. This guide is designed to demystify the concept of the target size and provide you with the know-how to calculate it, ensuring you wield the knowledge to make an empowered camera choice for your industrial applications.

Understanding Target Size:

The target size refers to the physical dimensions of the camera’s image sensor - the very heart of the camera that captures light and transforms it into digital signals. It is an essential parameter that cannot be overlooked when setting up your system and selecting the right camera for the job.

Measuring the Target Size:

Target sizes are traditionally measured in inches, such as the common 1 inch, 2/3 inch, or 1/2 inch sensors. But how do we calculate these sizes? Sensors are typically rectangular, made up of a matrix of pixels. By knowing the size of each pixel, we can determine the sensor's dimensions.

Case Study: A 1.3 Megapixel Camera Example:

Let's consider a 1.3-megapixel camera with each pixel measuring 4.8 micrometers, and a resolution of 1280 by 1024 pixels. The sensor's long side would be 4.8 micrometers times 1280, amounting to 6.144 millimeters, while the short side would be 4.8 micrometers times 1024, equating to 4.915 millimeters. Using the Pythagorean theorem, we calculate the diagonal to be approximately 7.868 millimeters.

Converting to Inches:

While we have millimeter measurements, target sizes are generally given in inches. In camera terminology, one inch equals 16 millimeters — a conversion that harks back to historical imaging standards. Therefore, a 7.868-millimeter diagonal roughly translates to a 1/2 inch sensor size for our example camera.

Conclusion:

By following the process above, we gain not just an understanding of how to calculate target size but also the ability to choose the appropriate industrial camera based on our specific needs. May this article serve as your compass in navigating the technical landscape of industrial camera purchasing, leading you to the precise target size your project requires.