FPD-Link III

FPD-Link III cameras are designed for embedded vision
systems that need reliable image transmission over longer cable distances. They
provide the functionality of MIPI CSI-2 cameras while allowing the image sensor
and processing platform to be placed farther apart using FPD-Link III.

The Imaging Source FPD-Link III camera portfolio includes
compact 36C Series board modules and IP67-certified housed cameras. With cable
lengths of up to 15 m between camera and computer platform, these cameras are
suitable for embedded vision, industrial automation, logistics, robotics, IoT,
security and multi-camera machine vision systems using FPD-Link III.

FPD-Link III products

FPD-Link III cameras for embedded vision

FPD-Link III cameras are a practical option when a standard direct MIPI CSI-2 camera connection is too short for the system layout and requires FPD-Link III.
In many embedded systems, the camera must be installed close to the object, process or inspection area. The processing platform, however, may need to be placed in a protected enclosure or in a different part of the machine. FPD-Link III makes this layout possible by supporting longer camera cable distances with FPD-Link III.

Why choose FPD-Link III cameras?

FPD-Link III cameras are useful when an embedded vision system needs longer cable reach, compact camera hardware and stable image transfer with FPD-Link III.

Key advantages include:

  • Cable lengths of up to 15 m between camera and processing platform
  • Full MIPI CSI-2 camera functionality over a longer connection
  • High-speed image transmission over thin coaxial cabling
  • Support for single-camera and multi-camera embedded systems
  • Board-level and IP67 housed camera options
  • Triggering and I/O support for machine vision integration
  • Driver and SDK support for embedded development

How FPD-Link III extends camera cable length

FPD-Link III extends camera cable length by converting the camera signal for transmission over a coaxial cable using FPD-Link III.
Technically, this is done with serializer/deserializer technology, often shortened to SerDes. In practice, this means the camera data can travel farther than a direct MIPI CSI-2 connection while maintaining signal integrity through FPD-Link III.

This gives engineers more freedom when placing the camera, cable and processing platform inside an embedded vision system using FPD-Link III.

FPD-Link III compared with MIPI CSI-2

FPD-Link III and MIPI CSI-2 are closely related in embedded vision system design, but they solve different cable-length requirements with FPD-Link III.

MIPI CSI-2 is commonly used for short, direct connections between a camera module and an embedded processor. FPD-Link III is used when the system needs similar camera functionality but with a longer physical connection enabled by FPD-Link III.

For very compact designs with short internal cable paths, MIPI CSI-2 may be sufficient. For remote sensor placement or distributed camera setups, FPD-Link III offers more flexibility through FPD-Link III.

36C Series FPD-Link III board cameras

36C Series FPD-Link III board cameras are compact camera modules for embedded vision projects built around FPD-Link III.
These board-level cameras are suitable for systems that need a small footprint, flexible mounting and longer cable reach. They are available with mini lens holders for M12 lenses and front plate options for C/CS-mount lenses compatible with FPD-Link III.
The 36C Series FPD-Link III board cameras are designed for OEMs and system integrators building compact embedded vision systems, multi-camera systems or custom machine vision devices using FPD-Link III.

IP67 FPD-Link III cameras

IP67 FPD-Link III cameras are designed for embedded vision systems exposed to dust, moisture or demanding installation conditions requiring FPD-Link III.
The 36C Series IP67-certified housed cameras provide the same core FPD-Link III functionality as the board modules, with added environmental protection. They are suitable for applications where a bare-board camera does not provide enough mechanical or environmental protection while using FPD-Link III.

For full IP6K6 and IP6K7 protection, the cameras must be used with correctly mounted original lens tubes and compatible The Imaging Source cables with IP67-certified FAKRA connectors for FPD-Link III.

FPD-Link III sensors and resolutions

FPD-Link III cameras from The Imaging Source are available with Sony and onsemi CMOS sensors for FPD-Link III applications.
The portfolio includes global shutter and rolling shutter sensor options with resolutions from 0.4 MP to 8.3 MP. Frame rates range from 30 fps to 120 fps, depending on the selected model, sensor and configuration within the FPD-Link III portfolio.
Global shutter sensors are suitable for moving objects, vibration-sensitive environments and measurement tasks. Rolling shutter sensors are useful when resolution, sensitivity or cost efficiency is the main selection factor for FPD-Link III.

FPD-Link III lens compatibility

FPD-Link III cameras support a range of lens and mounting options for different embedded vision designs using FPD-Link III.
Available configurations include bare-board modules with mini lens holders for M12 lenses and front plate versions for C/CS-mount lenses. IP67 housed models are available for protected installations where the camera needs additional mechanical sealing when deployed with FPD-Link III.
This gives engineers flexibility when balancing optical performance, installation space and environmental requirements for FPD-Link III.

FPD-Link III cable distance and system layout

FPD-Link III cameras support cable lengths of up to 15 m between the camera and processing platform using FPD-Link III.
This longer cable distance helps simplify the mechanical design of embedded vision systems. The camera can be positioned where image capture is needed, while the processor can be placed in a more accessible or protected location through FPD-Link III.

This is especially useful in machines, vehicles, robots and multi-camera systems where camera placement is defined by the application rather than by the location of the processing board using FPD-Link III.

FPD-Link III deserializer boards

FPD-Link III cameras require a compatible deserializer board to connect with the embedded processing platform using FPD-Link III.
Deserializer boards convert the camera signal so it can be used by the host platform. For multi-camera systems, compatible carrier board options can support scalable architectures with multiple FPD-Link III cameras connected through FPD-Link III.
This is an important consideration when planning the complete embedded vision system, including camera, cable, deserializer, processing platform and software stack for FPD-Link III.

FPD-Link III software support

FPD-Link III camera integration depends on reliable driver and software support for successful FPD-Link III deployment.
The Imaging Source supports FPD-Link III cameras with driver packages and software tools for embedded development. Support includes NVIDIA JetPack driver packages and the tiscamera Linux SDK for FPD-Link III.
This helps engineering teams move from camera evaluation to a working embedded vision setup with less integration effort using FPD-Link III.

FPD-Link III triggering and I/O support

FPD-Link III cameras include triggering and I/O options for machine vision applications built around FPD-Link III.
Hardware and software triggering make it possible to synchronize image acquisition with lighting, motion control or external system events. I/O support helps connect the camera with other components in the machine vision system using FPD-Link III.
These features make FPD-Link III cameras suitable for applications that require controlled image capture rather than simple live video with FPD-Link III.

FPD-Link III applications

FPD-Link III cameras are suitable for embedded systems where the camera must be placed away from the main processing unit using FPD-Link III.

Typical applications include:

  • Industrial automation
  • Logistics and tracking systems
  • Robotics and autonomous systems
  • IoT and edge vision devices
  • Security and monitoring systems
  • Embedded AI vision
  • Multi-camera machine vision
  • Harsh-environment inspection systems

FPD-Link III cameras from prototype to production

FPD-Link III cameras from The Imaging Source are part of a complete embedded vision ecosystem built around FPD-Link III.
Camera modules, IP67 housings, compatible cables, deserializer boards, driver packages and technical support help reduce compatibility issues. This supports a clearer path from early evaluation to production-ready deployment using FPD-Link III.
The portfolio also includes a 3-year warranty and continuous support for long-term embedded vision projects based on FPD-Link III.

Need help choosing an FPD-Link III camera?

Selecting the right FPD-Link III camera depends on the sensor, resolution, lens, cable length, housing, deserializer board and processing platform for FPD-Link III.

Our machine vision specialists can help you compare the available FPD-Link III camera options and select the right setup for your embedded vision application using FPD-Link III.

Contact us for technical advice or support with your FPD-Link III camera selection and FPD-Link III.