Omron ZFV-SC50 Smart Camera

The Omron ZFV-SC50 is a compact, all-in-one smart camera vision sensor designed for simple inspection tasks in industrial automation. Featuring a 50mm lens and integrated white LED lighting, this device performs presence/absence checks, position detection, character verification (OCR/OCV), and shape matching. The processor is embedded within the camera, eliminating the need for an external vision controller. It outputs results via discrete I/O or serial communication.

Technical Specifications

Image sensor: 1/3-inch CMOS, 640x480 pixels (VGA). Frame rate: 60 fps max. Lens: fixed focal length 50mm, with manual focus ring. Depth of field: approx. 30mm at 200mm working distance. Integrated lighting: white LED ring light, intensity adjustable. Detection modes: presence (binary), edge position, width/diameter, pattern matching (normalized correlation), OCR (numeric), and code reading (1D/2D optional). Resolution: up to 0.01mm per pixel depending on working distance. Processing time: 10-50 ms per inspection depending on complexity. I/O: 5 inputs (trigger, select), 4 outputs (pass/fail, alarm). Communication: RS232C (9600-115200 baud), Ethernet (optional). Power supply: 24V DC, 250 mA. Protection: IP67 (with appropriate housing). Weight approx. 200g. Dimensions: 65mm x 65mm x 45mm.

Key Features

• Integrated camera, lens, lighting, and processor

• 50mm lens for detailed inspection at 150-300mm distance

• Built-in white LED ring light with adjustable intensity

• Inspection tools: presence, edge, pattern, OCR, code reading

• No external PC required; stand-alone operation

• Simple teach button and LED feedback on the unit

• RS232C for configuration and result output

• IP67-rated housing (dust-tight, water-resistant)

• Compatible with Omron ZFV Setup Tool software (Windows)

Inspection Capabilities

Presence inspection: Compares grayscale pattern with reference, detects missing parts or labels. Edge position: Measures the position of up to 8 edges, outputs shift in X/Y coordinates. Width/diameter: Measures distance between two edges. Pattern match: Robust to rotation up to ±15°, suitable for orientation verification. OCR: Recognizes up to 8 digits printed or embossed. 1D/2D code reading: Reads Code39, Code128, QR code (with optional firmware). The camera can store up to 30 inspection programs.

Installation and Configuration

Mount the camera on a fixed bracket at a distance of 150-300mm from the target object. Adjust focus ring and lighting intensity using the built-in buttons and LED display on the top panel. The teach button performs auto-exposure and auto-threshold. For advanced setup, connect via RS232 to a PC running ZFV Setup Tool software, which provides a live image and drag-and-drop inspection tools. The software allows setting region of interest (ROI), tolerance levels, and pass/fail logic. Up to 30 programs can be saved in non-volatile memory and selected via external inputs.

I/O and Communication

The 10-pin M12 connector provides: 5 inputs (IN0-IN4) – typically used for trigger, program select, and external teach. 4 outputs (OUT0-OUT3) – assignable to pass/fail, busy, error, or specific result bits. Outputs are NPN or PNP (selectable via wiring). The RS232 port (M8 connector) sends inspection results in ASCII or binary format. Optionally, an Ethernet module can be attached for PROFINET or EtherNet/IP.

Applications

The ZFV-SC50 is used for: verifying presence of screws on a PCB, checking orientation of components on a conveyor, reading labels on pharmaceutical vials, inspecting O-ring presence in grooves, and guiding pick-and-place robots. The 50mm lens provides high magnification, suitable for small parts (e.g., electronic components).

Environmental and Certifications

Operating temperature: 0°C to 50°C. Storage: -20°C to 70°C. Humidity: 35-85% non-condensing. The camera meets CE, FCC, and RoHS. IP67 protection ensures operation in dusty or wash-down environments (with mating connectors).

Conclusion

The Omron ZFV-SC50 smart camera simplifies vision inspection with its integrated design. It is ideal for basic quality control tasks in automated lines where speed and simplicity are prioritized over complex machine vision systems.