Difference between USB3 and GigE machine vision cameras
Both USB3 and GigE are standard interfaces widely used in the machine vision world. A machine vision interface is the communication link between the camera and the computer’s processing unit. This is the method used to transfer the image data captured from the camera to the computer for analysis. In this article we will dive deeper in the differences between USB3 and GigE interface cameras. This will be helpful to then select the best choice for your specific application requirements.
Table of contents
Overview of USB3 interface cameras
USB3 vision standard was introduced in the machine vision world in 2013. The USB3 interface has an easy plug and play installation with high levels of performance. Utilizing camera control principles from GeniCam standards, end users can easily integrate USB3 vision into their existing systems.
The USB3 interface is one of the most cost-effective interfaces in the machine vision world. It has the highest bandwidth with up to 400 mb/s. Its cable does have a limit to up to 4.6 meters, but the same cable will power the camera as well as transfer data. All our USB3 interface cameras are fully compatible with the USB3 vision standard which provides easy integration with different operating systems.
Our USB3 cameras are available from resolutions starting at 0.4MP and going up to 45MP, its frames per second range from only 8fps up to over 1000fps. Below, you can find an overview of some of our USB3 cameras:
USB3 interface cameras
Overview of GigE interface cameras
GigE vision standard was introduced in 2006. This camera interface was developed using the gigabit ethernet communication standard. With a bandwidth of about 125 mb/s, it will allow transfers of large images in a quick matter, also known for error-free image transfers over long distance cables. A difference between USB3 and GigE is that GigE vision allows cables of up to 100 meters. GigE cameras do require an U/O cable to power the camera over the I/O port. We also over PoE (Power over Ethernet) GigE cameras were only one cable is needed to transfer data and power the camera. GigE cameras carry their own IP-address, so there is no limit on the number of cameras that can be connected to the same network. It is also based on GeniCam standards which offers consistency for engineers as well as improve interoperability with other GeniCam based interfaces. Our GigE cameras are also compatible with the GigE vision standards which ensures seamless integration to many operating systems.
Our GigE cameras are available from only 0.4MP until 65MP, its frame rates go from 3fps to over 600 fps. Below you will find an overview of some of our GigE cameras:
Gige interface cameras
Key differences between USB3 and GigE interface cameras
| USB3 | GigE | |
|---|---|---|
| Bandwidth (megabyte / s) | 400 | 100 |
| 5MP camera max framerate | 80fps | 25fps |
| Cable length (max) | 4.6m | 100m |
| Power + Data on one cable | Yes | Only if POE |
| Frame-grabber mandatory | No | No |
| Cable Cost | Low | Low |
| Camera Cost | Low | Low |
| CPU Usage | Low | Medium |
| Customer Acceptance | Good | Good |
| Multiple Cameras | Excellent | Good |
Below is an overview of four of our 1.6MP industrial cameras, all carry the same Sony
IMX273 sensor. The difference between the USB3 interface cameras (two left
cameras) and the GigE interface cameras can be clearly seen in bandwidth.
Selected USB3/ GigE cameras
When to use GigE vs. USB3 industrial cameras
When to use a USB3 camera:
- Application that requires high resolution or high frame rate cameras, while it also requires high data transfer rates.
- When the setup is in a compact space, the camera and the processing unit must be within 4.6 meters.
- USB3 cameras and set ups are typically most cost effective.
- The plug and play functionality are a plus for quick integration and easy to use.
When to use a GigE camera:
- Applications with long distances between the camera and the processing unit.
- When multiple cameras are needed to be integrated into a single network.
- When using PoE or Power over Ethernet, only one cable is used so it will eliminate cable clutter.
- With rough industrial environments, GigE cameras are well suited for challenging conditions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both USB3 and GigE are the most popular machine vision standards both have great advantages for your specific solutions. USB3 vision standard is one of the fastest interfaces we support here at VA Imaging, and it used the least amount of computer processor power. It is ideal for high resolution and high-speed imaging; it is very cost effect but does have a cable length maximum of 4.6 meters. GigE vision standard is often used in applications that require longer cable lengths. It has an average bandwidth which makes it ideal for most applications. If you have any questions or would like to double check with us which interface will work best with your project, leave us a message below:
