Cameras featuring the Sony IMX548 Sensor: Specs, Pricing & Lifecycle
Gaspar van Elmbt
This article highlights the main features of the Sony IMX548 image sensor and explores its integration with various camera interfaces, including CoaXPress. It also provides guidance on choosing compatible industrial lenses to ensure the sensor delivers optimal imaging performance.
You can download our machine vision camera manual, which contains complete specifications for cameras equipped with the IMX548, as well as spectral response charts and mechanical drawings.
Table of contents
Sony IMX548 Sensor Overview
The Sony IMX548 is a high-resolution CMOS sensor tailored for industrial and machine vision applications. It delivers 5.1 megapixels (2448 x 2048) at a 2.74 μm pixel size with a global shutter, enabling precise image capture even at high speed. When paired with a CoaXPress interface, the sensor supports up to 131fps at full resolution, making it suitable for fast=paced inspection and measurement tasks.
The IMX548 is part of Sony’s 4th-generation Pregius (Pregius S) lineup, featuring a black-illuminated stacked CMOS design for improved sensitivity and efficiency. The 4-th generation family also includes sensors with other resolutions, such as 5 MP (IMX547), 8 MP (IMX546), 12.21 MP (IMX545), 16.1 MP (IMX542), 20.2 MP (IMX541), and 24.2 MP (IMX54), offering flexible options for a wide range of machine vision applications.
Machine Vision Cameras with Sony IMX548
VA Imaging offers a range of industrial cameras featuring the Sony IMX548 sensor, engineered for high image quality, fast frame rates, and reliable performance in demanding environments.
Thanks to efficient operations and low margins, our cameras deliver competitive pricing without compromising on quality. Every IMX548 camera comes with a 5-year warranty, ensuring long-term reliability and peace of mind.
Customers also enjoy fast delivery, extensive technical support, and a broad product portfolio, making integration into machine vision systems smooth and straightforward.
With high performance, exceptional value, and comprehensive support, VA Imaging is the ideal choice for businesses seeking cost-effective, reliable machine vision solutions.
Sony IMX548 sensor for CoaXPress vision camera
The IMX548 sensor is well-suited for CoaXPress cameras, which provide a robust and reliable interface for industrial applications. CoaXPress cameras offer exceptional image quality and high-speed data transmission, making it ideal for demanding industrial inspection, scientific research, and medical imaging tasks. Our CoaXPress camera models with IMX548 are MER3 515-131X2C and MER3-515-131X2M. For our CoaXPress cameras, you can download the camera manual, free SDK and 3D files in our Download page. This 5.1 MP camera offers 131 frames per second.
Spectral response of IMX548 monochrome and color sensors
2nd-Generation Pregius vs. 4th-Generation Pregius S
Sony’s 2nd- and 4th-generation IMX sensors show clear progress in global shutter CMOS technology. 2nd-generation sensors, such as the IMX273, feature 3.45 μm pixels and resolutions up to 12 MP. They offer excellent low-light performance and can achieve high frame rates, making them reliable for standard machine vision applications.
In contrast, 4th-generation Pregius S sensors, like the IMX548, use smaller 2.74 μm pixels, supporting resolutions up to 24.5 MP. Despite the smaller pixel size, these sensors maintain strong sensitivity thanks to a back-illuminated stacked CMOS design that reduces noise and improves photon collection. Advanced features such as dual ADC readout and exposure-time monitoring enhance image precision and efficiency.
While 2nd-generation sensors remain highly capable and among the most light-sensitive options, 4th-generation Pregius S sensors deliver higher resolution, more features, and greater efficiency, making them ideal for advanced imaging applications requiring both speed and image quality.
For a detailed comparison of light sensitivity and performance between 2nd- and 4th-generation sensors, see this article.
Product Life Cycle of the Sony IMX548
The Sony IMX548 is a mature, well-established sensor with a proven track record in the machine vision market. Its longevity and reliability mean you can count on consistent image quality and dependable performance over many years.
At VA Imaging, we recognize the importance of selecting the right sensor for your applications. That’s why we offer a wide range of cameras featuring the IMX548. We produce tens of thousands of cameras annually with sensors up to 6 megapixels, with the IMX548 remaining one of the most popular choices. This high production volume reflects the sensor’s versatility and effectiveness across a broad range of machine vision tasks.
In summary, the IMX548’s maturity, proven performance, and widespread adoption make it a reliable and cost-effective solution for industrial imaging. Choosing a camera with the IMX548 sensor is a sound investment for businesses seeking both quality and long-term dependability.
Applications and Advantages of Sony IMX548 Cameras
The Sony IMX548 sensor is a popular choice for a wide range of industrial and machine vision applications. Its combination of 5.1-megapixel resolution, 2.74 μm pixel size, and global shutter technology makes it ideal for tasks that require high-speed, precise imaging, such as quality control, electronics inspection, robotics, and automated measurement systems.
Cameras equipped with the IMX548 deliver reliable performance in demanding environments, ensuring consistent image quality even in challenging lighting conditions. All our IMX548 cameras are available with CoaXPress interfaces, providing high-speed data transfer and robust integration for demanding industrial setups.
In addition to performance, the IMX548 offers practical advantages for system designers. Its mature technology and proven track record provide long-term reliability and stability, while high production volumes make cameras based on this sensor a cost-effective solution. Engineers can confidently select IMX548 cameras knowing they are backed by robust technical support, extensive documentation, and a 5-year warranty, ensuring minimal downtime and maximum productivity.
Overall, the Sony IMX548 sensor is a versatile, high-performance, and dependable platform for industrial imaging. Whether for fast-paced inspection, scientific research, or complex automation, IMX548-based cameras combine speed, accuracy, and efficiency, making them a preferred choice for businesses seeking high-quality, reliable, and cost-effective machine vision solutions.
Discover our full range of IMX548 CoaXPress cameras today and request a quote to see how they can enhance your machine vision applications.
