Omron F300-B5 Base Unit for F300 Image Processing System

The Omron F300-B5 is the base controller unit of the F300 series high-speed vision system. It processes images captured by connected F300 cameras (up to two) and performs inspection tasks such as presence verification, measurement, and pattern matching. Results are communicated to a PLC via parallel I/O or serial link. This unit is designed for demanding industrial automation lines.

Processing and Memory

CPU: 32-bit RISC at 200 MHz. Image processing speed: 4 ms per inspection (typical with 640x480 image). Program memory: 2 MB (up to 1000 inspection sequences). Data memory: 8 MB for image buffer. The unit uses a real-time operating system for deterministic response. It includes a battery-backed clock and CMOS RAM for settings retention.

Camera and Acquisition

Compatible cameras: Omron F300-C20 (monochrome) and F300-C30 (color). Two camera inputs (BNC). Resolution up to 640x480 pixels (VGA) at 60 frames per second. Strobe light output for external illumination. Shutter speed adjustable from 1/120 to 1/10000 sec. The base unit provides 12V DC power for the camera (200mA).

I/O and PLC Interface

Built-in parallel I/O: 8 opto-isolated inputs (24V DC) for triggers and program selection; 8 transistor outputs (24V DC, 50mA) for pass/fail, error, and run condition. Additionally, RS-232C (115200 baud) and RS-422 (for remote teach pendant) are available. An optional Ethernet module (F300-EN) can be added in the expansion slot. The parallel I/O can directly connect to a PLC’s digital I/O cards, and the serial port can be used for Modbus RTU.

Inspection Tools

Built-in vision tools include: pattern find (normalized correlation), edge detection, blob analysis, binary counting, OCR (optical character recognition), barcode reading (1D and 2D), width/gap measurement, and color extraction (color model). Up to 16 inspection items per program, with logical combination (AND/OR) of results. Sub-pixel accuracy 0.1 pixel.

Programming and Setup

Configuration via Omron F300 Setup Tool software (Windows-based). Users teach inspection areas by capturing live images and dragging regions of interest. No code writing; parameters are set through menus. The software includes a simulator for offline programming. Up to 64 programs (inspection recipes) can be stored and selected by external inputs.

Environmental and Power

Power supply: 24V DC ±10%, 600mA (including camera). Operating temperature: 0-50°C. Protection: IP20 (open chassis). Dimensions: 160 x 90 x 50 mm (WxHxD). Weight: 0.6 kg. Mounting: DIN rail or screw panel. Vibration: 2g at 10-55Hz. The base unit has forced air convection cooling (no internal fan).

Applications

Used in assembly verification (missing parts), label positioning, pharmaceutical blister pack inspection, automotive component orientation, and electronic component alignment. The F300-B5 is standard in high-speed production lines up to 600 parts per minute.

Expansion Options

The F300 series includes a digital I/O expansion card (F300-IO16) adding 16 inputs and 16 outputs. Also a multi-camera multiplexer (F300-MUX) for up to 8 cameras. The base unit has one expansion slot.

Compliance

CE, FCC, RoHS. UL 508 listed. The system meets EN 61000-6-2/4 for EMC. It is suitable for industrial environments with pollution degree 2.

Conclusion

The Omron F300-B5 base unit offers a powerful yet simple vision solution for PLC-controlled automation. With high-speed processing and flexible communication, it remains a reliable choice for quality assurance tasks.