OMRON F350‑C10E Complete Image Processing System with Integrated PLC and Processing Board
The OMRON F350‑C10E is a standalone image processing unit that combines a high‑performance vision engine with an embedded programmable logic controller (PLC) on a single board. Designed for factory automation, this complete system performs real‑time inspection, measurement, and object recognition while executing logic control tasks. The unit includes a dedicated processing board that handles image acquisition, filtering, and pattern matching independently of the PLC scan, ensuring high throughput.
Vision Processing Capabilities
The F350‑C10E supports up to two camera inputs via standard analog (CCIR/EIA) or digital interfaces. The onboard image processor operates at 100 MHz and includes 64 MB of dedicated image memory. It executes algorithms such as barcode reading, OCR (optical character recognition), edge detection, area measurement, and pattern matching (normalised correlation) with a typical processing time of 15 milliseconds per image. Resolution support up to 640 × 480 pixels (VGA). The unit also provides strobe control outputs for external lighting, enabling consistent illumination in high‑speed lines.
Integrated PLC Functionality
The embedded PLC section is compatible with OMRON’s SYSMAC instruction set. It provides 16 digital inputs (24 V DC) and 12 transistor outputs (sink type, 0.3 A per point). Program memory of 10,000 steps allows ladder logic programming via CX‑One software. The PLC can execute independent logic sequences, such as reject mechanisms or conveyor control, based on inspection results. Internal high‑speed bus between the vision processor and PLC enables pass/fail decisions within 1 ms after image analysis. The PLC also supports timers, counters, arithmetic operations, and data movement instructions.
Onboard Processing Board
The dedicated processing board (included with the F350‑C10E) contains a field‑programmable gate array (FPGA) that accelerates pixel operations. It handles real‑time preprocessing: binarisation, noise reduction, edge extraction, and dilation/erosion. The board communicates with the main CPU via a PCI‑like interface. An additional connector allows external triggering from proximity sensors or encoders, synchronising image capture with product position. The board also features a built‑in temperature sensor and diagnostic LEDs for health monitoring.
Communication and Integration
The F350‑C10E provides multiple communication ports: RS‑232C (for host communication), RS‑422/485 (multidrop), and Ethernet (10/100Base‑T) supporting Modbus TCP and OMRON FINS protocols. This allows the unit to send inspection results to higher‑level systems (SCADA, MES) or receive configuration updates from a central server. The unit also includes two analog outputs (0‑10 V) for proportional control based on vision measurements, such as guiding a servo axis to centre a workpiece.
Electrical and Mechanical Specifications
Power supply: 24 V DC ±10%, 1.2 A maximum. Power consumption approximately 28 W. The unit is housed in a metal enclosure rated IP20, dimensions 180 mm × 120 mm × 60 mm, weight 0.8 kg. Operating temperature 0‑50 °C, humidity 35‑85% non‑condensing. The front panel includes a 2‑line LCD display and a 4‑button keypad for local configuration and status viewing. Mounting is via DIN rail or rear panel screws. The unit meets CE, UL, and RoHS standards.
Typical Applications
Common applications include pharmaceutical blister pack inspection, automotive part orientation, label presence/absence detection, and electronic component lead verification. By merging vision and logic control into a single compact unit, the F350‑C10E reduces engineering effort, panel space, and wiring complexity compared to separate vision controllers and PLCs.
