Machine Vision camera Zebra FS42 in practice: Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

During our implementations with Zebra cameras we encounter questions from our customers. Some questions are repetitive, some are unique. But we believe you will find both types of questions interesting.

What is the difference between a code reader and a Zebra FS42 machine vision camera?

• The FS42 can read barcodes and 2D codes like a regular reader, but it also allows you to perform inspection tasks - checking for presence, position, shape, color or product quality. In addition, it can do this at higher speeds or in poorer conditions.
  

Can the FS42 read with OCR?

• Yes Zebra FS42 can have OCR (Optical Character Recognition) installed so it can read alphanumeric characters. It does not work with only two fonts, the range of fonts is much wider. It can also learn.
  

Is it possible to read on a rounded, curved surface?

• Yes, it is, roundness is not so much a problem in that the characters are deformed, Zebra FS42 can cope with that, rather it makes demands on working with contrast, i.e. with illumination. The ideal is to have a workstation where the luminosity is always the same (camera accessories) and this makes the reading results as similar as possible.
  

Are there increased illumination requirements for Zebra camera reading?

• Yes, mainly because the camera works with the image it creates and bases its evaluation on contrast. Therefore, it is ideal to create a workstation where the light will be the same. Conversely, transitions between artificial light and daylight will most likely produce differences in contrast and thus a much greater chance of a poor evaluation.
  

What do I need besides a camera to complete the project?

• In terms of HW you need a communication cable, so typically Ethernet or USB. Then you need to power the camera - usually a special cable from Zebra and a power supply for that.
• The software is the tricky part. It depends on how hard a task you give the camera. If just reading the code or recognizing the characters, then your computer will do. Most of the time. But if it's a more complex task, typically using neural networks, you'll need speciala special computer (Controller) that can handle a high number of operations in a short time.
  

Is it possible to operate the camera in a factory floor with higher dust levels?

• The camera is IP65/IP67 rated. This means that the equipment is dustproof and able to withstand high pressure rinsing - or even complete immersion in water.
  

Can the camera be supplied with a protective cover or self-cleaning system?

• No, Zebra does not offer any at this time. However, we can work with the customer on something like this and offer a solution.
  

What is the time interval for measuring one piece? What is the real processing time for an image?

• The camera reads really fast, it reads in milliseconds. The processing then depends on the job and the hardware the SW is running on.
  

Does the camera support integrated image processing or is an external PC required?

• The camera has its own system with a CPU that works by itself without an additional PC. The camera can be configured to send only the output data.
  

What is the approximate price of the camera or the whole system?

• It is unrealistic to say the price from the table. If you can somehow roughly price the cost, then count on the lower tens of thousands of crowns for simpler cameras. For the most complex solutions, where the software learns from hundreds of images and many programming hours are needed, count the higher tens of thousands of Euros. But ask us and we will be happy to calculate the range.
  

Is it possible to test or rent equipment before purchase?

• In theory, yes. But practically, without a task developed by us, an environment verified by us, including lights, it will probably not be of telling value. If you want to read something that no reader has read before and it's possible to send it to us, we'll try to read it for you. But if it's a big one, or it's a more complicated solution, we'll probably need to come to you. Yes there is a charge for the trip, but this will let us know if your request is feasible and give you a clear answer.
  

What is the availability?

• Lead times vary from model to model. Some we have in stock, some are available from a partner in the Czech Republic, some are in the EU, but you may have to wait two months for some models. But as time goes on, the time gets shorter.
  

What are the options for service, software updates and technical support?

• Of course we provide all that. In addition, we can agree SLAs at different levels. Whether in the form of cheaper programming hours or year-round support with fast response times.

CODEWARE as an "Industry Partner" of Zebra offers this solution. Whether you need simple or demanding quality checks in your operation, we have the ideal solution for you. For more information , feel free to contact our sales department or fill out the contact form and a salesperson will get back to you.