FPD-Link III Camera
FPD-Link III Camera 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.
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.
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.
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Up to 15 m cable length
FPD-Link III cameras support cable lengths of up to 15 m between the camera and processing platform.
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MIPI CSI-2 functionality
FPD-Link III enables full MIPI CSI-2 camera functionality over a longer camera connection.
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Thin coaxial cabling
High-speed image data can be transmitted over thin coaxial cabling for flexible system integration.
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Single and multi-camera systems
FPD-Link III cameras can support embedded vision setups with one camera or multiple camera positions.
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Board-level and IP67 options
Camera options include compact board-level modules and IP67 housed cameras for demanding environments.
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Triggering and I/O options
Selected FPD-Link III camera models support triggering and I/O for machine vision applications.
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Driver and SDK support
Driver and SDK support helps reduce development effort during embedded camera integration.
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.
Technically, this is done with serializer/deserializer technology, often shortened to SerDes. In practice, this means camera data can travel farther than a direct MIPI CSI-2 connection while maintaining signal integrity.
This gives engineers more freedom when placing the camera, cable and processing platform inside an embedded vision system.
FPD-Link III compared with MIPI CSI-2
Short direct connection
MIPI CSI-2
MIPI CSI-2 is commonly used for short, direct connections between a camera module and an embedded processor. It is a practical interface choice for compact embedded vision designs with short internal cable paths.
Longer physical connection
FPD-Link III
FPD-Link III is used when the system needs similar camera functionality but with a longer physical connection. It offers more flexibility for remote sensor placement and distributed camera setups.
How to choose:
For very compact designs, MIPI CSI-2 may be sufficient. For remote camera placement or longer cable paths, FPD-Link III is often the more flexible option.
Building a compact embedded vision system with short camera-to-processor connections? Explore compatible MIPI CSI-2 camera options for embedded platforms.
View MIPI CSI-2 Cameras36C Series FPD-Link III board cameras
36C Series FPD-Link III board cameras are compact camera modules for embedded vision projects.
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.
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.
IP67 FPD-Link III cameras
IP67 FPD-Link III cameras are designed for embedded vision systems exposed to dust, moisture or demanding installation conditions.
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.
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.
FPD-Link III sensors and resolutions
FPD-Link III cameras from The Imaging Source are available with Sony and onsemi CMOS sensors.
The current FPD-Link III camera range includes global shutter and rolling shutter sensor options with resolutions up to 5 MP. Frame rates depend on the selected model, sensor and configuration.
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.
FPD-Link III lens compatibility
FPD-Link III cameras support a range of lens and mounting options for different embedded vision designs.
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.
This gives engineers flexibility when balancing optical performance, installation space and environmental requirements.
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.
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.
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.
FPD-Link III deserializer boards
FPD-Link III cameras require a compatible deserializer board to connect with the embedded processing platform.
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.
This is an important consideration when planning the complete embedded vision system, including camera, cable, deserializer, processing platform and software stack.
FPD-Link III software support
FPD-Link III camera integration requires reliable driver and software support.
The Imaging Source supports FPD-Link III cameras with camera drivers, SDKs, programming samples, software tools and Linux ARM integration. Software support can include IC Imaging Control 4 SDK, depending on the selected FPD-Link III camera model and processing platform.
Reliable software support helps engineering teams move from camera evaluation to a working embedded vision setup with less integration effort.
FPD-Link III triggering and I/O support
Some FPD-Link III camera models include triggering and I/O options for machine vision applications.
Hardware and software triggering can help synchronize image acquisition with lighting, motion control or external system events. I/O support can also help connect the camera with other components in the machine vision system.
Because triggering and I/O support can vary by model, the individual FPD-Link III camera specifications should be checked during camera selection.
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.
Logistics and tracking systems
Remote camera placement for identification, tracking and process visibility.
Robotics and autonomous systems
Camera integration for robots, mobile platforms and autonomous machines.
IoT and edge vision devices
Distributed camera setups for compact edge systems and connected devices.
Security and monitoring systems
Stable image transfer for monitoring setups where cameras are placed remotely.
Embedded AI vision
Camera input for local processing, object detection and AI-based image analysis.
Multi-camera machine vision
Multiple remote camera viewpoints for inspection, positioning and scene analysis.
Harsh-environment inspection systems
IP67 housed camera options for inspection systems exposed to dust, moisture or demanding installation conditions.
FPD-Link III cameras from prototype to production
FPD-Link III cameras from The Imaging Source are part of a complete embedded vision ecosystem.
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.
The portfolio also includes a 3-year warranty and continuous support for long-term embedded vision projects.
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. The Imaging Source can help you compare the available FPD-Link III camera options and select the right setup for your embedded vision application.
Contact The Imaging Source for technical advice or support with your FPD-Link III camera selection.