IDS U3-3001SE USB3 Global Shutter Camera – 12 MP Precision Imaging for Industrial Vision
Product Overview
The IDS U3-3001SE USB3 Global Shutter Camera is a high-resolution industrial imaging solution engineered for applications where motion accuracy and image consistency are critical. Equipped with a 12.3-megapixel Sony global shutter CMOS sensor, it captures distortion-free images even when objects move at high speed. Its USB 3.0 interface enables fast, reliable data transfer, while the compact C-mount design supports flexible system integration. The U3-3001SE directly addresses the challenge of obtaining sharp, time-accurate images in machine vision tasks such as inspection, measurement, and automated quality control.
Product Description
In real production environments, the IDS U3-3001SE delivers tangible performance advantages. The global shutter ensures every pixel is exposed simultaneously, making it ideal for fast conveyors, robotic handling, and strobe-based lighting setups. The large 1.1″ sensor format and fine pixel structure allow small defects and dimensional variations to be detected with confidence. USB 3.0 connectivity supports real-time image processing, while hardware triggering, long-exposure support, and onboard image adjustments simplify synchronization with external equipment. These capabilities help system designers reduce tuning time, improve inspection reliability, and maintain consistent results across demanding industrial vision applications.
Why IDS U3-3001SE?
The IDS U3-3001SE is chosen when image accuracy, timing precision, and system stability matter more than raw speed alone. Its global shutter architecture ensures that fast-moving objects are captured without distortion, while the high-resolution 12 MP sensor preserves fine details across a large field of view. Combined with USB 3.0 bandwidth, flexible triggering, and a compact industrial design, the U3-3001SE offers a balanced solution for engineers who need dependable, repeatable imaging performance in real production environments.
What problem does it solve?
The IDS U3-3001SE solves the common industrial vision challenge of capturing sharp, reliable images in dynamic or synchronized systems. Traditional rolling shutter cameras can introduce motion skew, timing errors, and inconsistent measurements. By exposing all pixels simultaneously, the U3-3001SE eliminates these risks, enabling accurate inspection of fast conveyors, rotating parts, and strobed scenes. This improves defect detection, measurement confidence, and overall system reliability while reducing integration complexity and troubleshooting time.
Key Features & Specifications – IDS U3-3001SE: [Color: AB02369], [Mono: AB02370]
| Feature |
Details |
Benefit |
| Sensor Brand & Model |
Sony IMX253 (Color / Mono variants) |
Proven industrial-grade sensor ensures stable image quality and long-term availability |
| Interface |
USB 3.0 (USB Type-C) |
Easy integration with PCs and embedded systems without frame grabbers |
| Interface Speed |
USB 3.0 SuperSpeed |
Supports high data throughput for real-time image processing |
| Resolution (H × V) |
4096 × 3000 pixels (12.29 MP) |
Captures fine details for inspection, metrology, and analysis |
| Optical Area (H × V) |
14.16 mm × 10.37 mm |
Large active area supports wide field-of-view imaging |
| Optical Format |
1.1″ (Diagonal 17.55 mm) |
Enables use of high-quality industrial C-mount lenses |
| Lens Mount |
C-Mount |
Broad compatibility with machine vision lenses |
| Pixel Size |
3.45 µm × 3.45 µm |
Balanced sensitivity and resolution for demanding lighting conditions |
| Image Memory |
128 MB onboard |
Buffers images for stable acquisition during burst or triggered capture |
| Frame Rate @ Max. Resolution |
32 fps (up to 37 fps with trigger) |
Supports high-speed inspection without sacrificing resolution |
| Shutter |
Global Shutter |
Eliminates motion distortion on fast-moving objects |
| Exposure Time |
0.032 ms to 2000 ms (up to 44 s long exposure) |
Flexible operation from high-speed capture to low-light imaging |
| Trigger & Flash I/O |
Opto-isolated trigger input, flash output, GPIO via 8-pin Hirose |
Precise synchronization with encoders, strobes, and automation equipment |
| Power Supply |
USB-powered (with auxiliary I/O supply) |
Simplifies cabling and system design |
| Software Tools |
IDS peak SDK, on-camera image controls |
Reduces development time and simplifies camera configuration |
| Environmental Tolerance |
Operating temperature 0 °C to 55 °C, 20–80% humidity (non-condensing) |
Reliable operation in industrial environments |
| Housing Protection |
Open industrial camera design |
Optimized for integration into machine housings |
| Size & Weight |
34 × 44 × 31 mm, approx. 46 g |
Compact and lightweight for space-constrained systems |
Download IDS U3-3001SE-C-HQ Color (AB02369) Datasheet
Download IDS U3-3001SE-M-GL Mono (AB02370) Datasheet
Download IDS U3-3001SE Technical Drawing
The Applications
1. High-Speed Conveyor Inspection in Automated Manufacturing
On fast production lines, products can move unpredictably, causing motion blur and geometric distortion if image timing is inaccurate. Cameras built around the Sony IMX253 global shutter sensor are well suited for conveyor inspection because every pixel is captured at the same instant. This prevents skewed images even when objects move rapidly beneath the camera. The high 12-megapixel resolution makes it possible to inspect large areas while still identifying small surface defects, label errors, or missing features. With precise hardware triggering and controlled lighting, inspection results remain consistent across different line speeds, helping manufacturers maintain quality while minimizing false rejections.
2. Precision Measurement and Dimensional Metrology
Optical measurement systems rely on stable, repeatable images to achieve accurate results. The Sony IMX253 sensor is commonly applied in dimensional metrology where components may vibrate or move slightly during capture. Its global shutter design removes timing distortion, ensuring that edges and geometries remain true to scale. The fine pixel pitch supports detailed edge detection and sub-pixel measurement algorithms. When paired with appropriate optics, the large sensor format allows more measurement data to be captured in a single frame. This improves measurement confidence and reduces the need for slower, contact-based gauging methods.
3. Electronics and PCB Inspection Systems
Electronics manufacturing places strict demands on image clarity and timing, especially when inspecting populated circuit boards. Cameras using the IMX253 sensor are effective in PCB inspection systems because they can image moving boards without blur or deformation. The high resolution allows entire boards to be captured in fewer shots, while still resolving fine traces, solder joints, and component leads. Global shutter operation supports synchronized strobe lighting, which is essential for managing reflections from metallic surfaces. These capabilities help automated inspection systems detect assembly defects early and improve overall production yield.
4. Robotics and Vision-Guided Pick-and-Place
In robotic handling applications, inaccurate vision data can lead to positioning errors and reduced throughput. The Sony IMX253 sensor is frequently used in vision-guided robotics because it delivers distortion-free images even when robots move quickly. Global shutter exposure ensures that object positions are captured accurately at a precise moment in time. High image resolution improves object recognition, orientation detection, and alignment calculations. Combined with hardware triggering, the vision system can stay synchronized with robot motion, enabling faster cycle times, higher placement accuracy, and more reliable operation in flexible automation environments.
5. Scientific Imaging and Laboratory Automation
Laboratory and research environments often require consistent image data for analysis and documentation. The IMX253 sensor is suitable for scientific imaging tasks where samples or stages may move during acquisition. Its linear response and low noise support quantitative analysis, while the global shutter prevents artifacts that could compromise results. High resolution allows detailed observation across larger sample areas, reducing the need for repeated scans. These characteristics make the sensor well suited for automated laboratory systems that demand repeatability, data integrity, and efficient imaging workflows over long operating periods.
Related Products & Accessories
IDS Accessories
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C-Mount Industrial Lenses (IDS Approved) – Optimized for 1.1″ sensors and 12 MP resolution
-
USB 3.0 Type-C Industrial Cables – Stable, high-speed data transfer for machine vision
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8-Pin Hirose I/O Cables – Hardware trigger, GPIO, and flash synchronization
-
Industrial LED Strobe Lights & Controllers – Designed for global shutter and triggered capture
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Camera Mounting Brackets – Secure installation for fixed and robotic systems
IDS Imaging Cameras
As an authorized distributor of IDS products, we offer certified expertise and technical support to ensure you get the most out of your U3-3001SE camera. We stand by the quality of our products and provide comprehensive warranty services. Our team can also assist with special services like custom integration and creating pre-configured kits tailored to your specific needs.
- Contact Us: Get in touch with our technical support team for detailed inquiries about the U3-3001SE ‘s features and integration.
- Request a Quote: Planning a large-scale project? Contact us for a bulk quote or OEM pricing.
- Download Software: Access the necessary software, APIs, and manuals to get started with your IDS camera.
- Email: sales@axmatic.com
