MIPI CSI-2 CAMERA MODULES FOR EMBEDDED VISION

MIPI cameras are embedded camera modules that can be integrated into numerous devices and applications. They are based on the MIPI CSI-2 interface, a widely used standard, and can be combined with numerous processor boards.

 

VC MIPI® Cameras are perfectly suited for the fast, simple and cost-effective development of embedded vision systems.They are developed and manufactured by VC in Germany, especially for the high demands of industrial applications and volume products. In addition, VC MIPI Cameras offer further advantages:

Vision Components IMX296 MIPI Kameramodul
VC MIPI camera modules dimensions front side
MIPI camera module with dimensions
Ultra compact
The MIPI CSI-2 camera modules are barely larger than the respective image sensors themselves and can be flexibly integrated. This opens up new possibilities for innovative products – in industry as well as for portable devices, drones and vehicle applications.
Powerful

The fast image processing rates and high resolution of the image sensors make VC MIPI® modules extremely powerful. State-of-the-art signal processing technologies enable precise image analysis and processing in real time.

Large product range

We offer the widest range of image sensors, from extremely cost-effective MIPI cameras to high-end sensors with 20 megapixels and more, with global shutter, rolling shutter or global reset shutter. For individual projects, we adapt standard modules or develop new cameras with customer-specific image sensors.

Highlights of our VC MIPI Cameras

Neu: Vision Components MIPI Kameramodul IMX900
VC MIPI IMX900
The world's first MIPI camera with SONY IMX900 image sensor. High image quality and light sensitivity up to the NIR range.
Vision Components IMX296 MIPI Kameramodul
VC MIPI IMX296
The best-selling VC MIPI® camera module, with optimal ratio of resolution, pixel size and price.
Vision Components IMX568 MIPI Kameramodul
VC MIPI IMX568
The follow-up to the IMX296, MIPI camera with 5 MPixel high quality resolution and global shutter in the smallest form factor.
Vision Components IMX565 MIPI Kameramodul
VC MIPI IMX565

High-end/mid-range MIPI CSI camera with SONY Pregius® sensor. 12 MPixel resolution for a wide range of applications.

Vision Components IMX335 MIPI Kameramodul
VC MIPI IMX462-C
Full-HD MIPI camera with SONY Starvis® image sensor and rolling shutter, universal and cost-effective.
Vision Components IMX335 MIPI Kameramodul
VC MIPI IMX335
Low-cost MIPI camera module for industrial/commercial use. High image quality at a low price.

What is a MIPI Camera? What does MIPI CSI-2 stand for?
And what makes VC MIPI® different?

MIPI cameras utilize the MIPI CSI-2 interface (Camera Serial Interface-2) defined by the MIPI-Alliance (Mobile Industry Processor Interface Alliance) for fast data transfer between the camera sensor and the processor board. This is why they are also referred to as "CSI cameras" or „MIPI CSI Cameras“, which is even more technically accurate. The powerful, ultra-compact and energy-efficient Cameras were originally developed for smartphones and other mobile applications. The long-term available, robust and price-optimized VC MIPI Camera Modules extend this technology to industrial applications and series products.

Looking for a special sensor?

VC MIPI® Camera Modules have been specially developed for deployment in industrial applications and series products. They are available with numerous image sensors, including types that do not natively support a MIPI interface. Can't find the sensor you are looking for? Talk to us! Maybe it's already on our roadmap!

MIPI components for quick integration

Rund um unsere MIPI Kameras bieten wir mit dem VC MIPI® Ecosystem We offer a comprehensive range of accessories for our MIPI cameras, for example VC MIPI® FPC Cables with 15, 22 and 24 pins for connection to all common processor boards, cable extensions and MIPI repeater boards, lighting and lens holders as well as free drivers in source code.

MIPI CSI Cameras Made in Germany

Development and production in Ettlingen near Karlsruhe: We ensure the highest product quality of our VC MIPI® Cameras and components, with sophisticated design, high-quality multi-layer boards and selected image sensors with long-term availability. For manufacturing, we rely on state-of-the-art production standards and test procedures.

THE VC MIPI ECOSYSTEM

Successful projects with VC MIPI Cameras

Projects with VC MIPI® Cameras and various processor boards are already successfully used in numerous industries and applications. This includes automation and quality assurance as well as robots, intelligent household devices and solutions for smart cities, drones and special vehicles, medical technology and laboratory equipment. 

Nanosatellites for Earth observation - a view from space

Space operation: VC MIPI for Satellite Images of Earth

Interconnected nano-satellites use VC MIPI® and Raspberry Pi.

Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR) Arculee for Intralogistics

Flexible Intralogistics: Precise Navigation for arculus AMRs

Positioning mobile robots to the millimeter with NVIDIA Jetson and VC MIPI® Cameras
Reading engraved characters

Find and read engraved characters? Deep learning helps!

A system with NVIDIA Jetson processor and VC MIPI® cameras identifies barely legible characters.

MIPI for industry starts here

Find the right VC MIPI® camera for your project!

VC MIPI Brochure

Download our latest MIPI brochure in PDF format.

Frequently asked questions about MIPI CSI-2 Cameras

Do you have further questions?

A MIPI camera (Mobile Industry Processor Interface - camera) uses the MIPI CSI-2 interface (Camera Serial Interface 2) to transfer images and videos to a host device, processor or microcontroller. The MIPI CSI-2 interface is specifically designed for mobile and embedded systems and is commonly used in smartphones, tablets, drones and other compact electronic devices.

 

VC MIPI® Cameras are based on the same technology, and are adapted to the special requirements of professional applications. They offer a price-optimized design, industrial-grade quality and long-term availability.

MIPI cameras offer a high data rate of up to 6 GBit/s (with 4 lanes of 1.5 GBit/s each) and are therefore also suitable for high-resolution image and video applications. They are low-power, compact and flexible to integrate, making them ideal for installation in mobile devices, robots and ultra-compact sensors. In combination with embedded vision and onboard data processing, no additional computing units are required.

MIPI cameras were originally developed for smartphones and tablets, where they can be integrated into the smallest of spaces. Today, industrial applications and smart devices also benefit from these advantages. VC develops and produces special MIPI CSI cameras for professional applications, such as medical diagnostics, to read engraved characters or to navigate robots and AMRs.

A ribbon cable specially designed for MIPI CSI-2 is usually used to connect a MIPI camera. The MIPI FFC cables (Flexible Flat Cable) or FPC Cables consist of parallel, flat cables and are ideal for high-speed data transmission in a compact design. Shielded flat cables are often used to protect against electromagnetic interference (EMI).


The connectors and cables must be matched to the specific connections of the processor board used. Different MIPI connectors are implemented, depending on the manufacturer.


MIPI cables are usually a maximum of 20 cm long. For longer cables up to 10 m and more flexible integrations, VC offers solutions with SerDes adapters and coaxial cables.