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Important notice - You will not have the ability to place orders order, see prices or stock information from 12pm Friday 15th May until 18th May 2026. Whilst we perform essential maintenance, we apologise for any inconvenience.
A line scan camera is a specialised industrial camera that captures images one line at a time, unlike traditional cameras that take full-frame images in a single exposure. These cameras use a single row of pixels to scan objects continuously as they move past the camera. Because of this, the object or scene must be in motion for a complete image to be formed. The final image is created by stitching together multiple line scans, producing a seamless, high-resolution result.
Line scan cameras come with various specifications to suit different applications. The most important features include:
When choosing an industrial camera, it's essential to understand the key differences between line scan and area scan technology:
Learning hub
| Feature | Line Scan Camera | Area Scan Camera |
| Image Capture | Captures one line at a time, requiring object to be moving |
Captures entire frame in a single exposure |
| Best for | High-speed conveyor, continuous material, moving applications |
Stationary or slow moving objects |
| Resolution | Extremely high resolution with seamless image stitching | Dependent on sensor size |
| Lighting Control | Uniform lighting, reduces glare and shadows |
More sensitive to uneven light |
| Frame limitations | No restriction on image light |
Fixed frame size |
| Motion Blur | Minimal blue with encoder synchronisation | More prone to motion blur at high speeds |
| Common uses | Web inspection, print inspection, high speed sorting | Object recognition, barcode reading, 3D imaging |
Which one is right for you?
If you need continuous scanning of moving material, a line scan camera is the best choice, for capturing static images, an area scan camera is more suitable.
Line scan cameras are widely used in high-speed industrial and scientific applications, including:
High-speed imaging - Ideal for fast moving conveyors and production lines.
Exceptional resolution - Detects tiny defects in manufacturing and quality control.
No frame size restrictions - Perfect for continuous material inspection (web inspection).
Consistent lighting - Reduces shadows, glare and uneven illumination by capturing only one line at a time.
Superior dynamic range - Useful in medical imaging, print inspection, and material analysis.
Synchronisation - Works seamlessly with encoder feedback, eliminating motion blur in fast-moving objects.
Compact and cost-effective - A single line scan camera can replace multiple area scan cameras reducing costs and system complexity.
At OEM Automatic, we are an exclusive partner of Basler, a global leader in industrial vision technology. Basler’s line scan cameras are known for:
Our Machine and Computer Vision team is here to help! Whether you need expert advice, product recommendations, or a proof-of-concept demonstration:
Phone support – Call us at 0116 284 9900
Email support – Contact us at [email protected]
Live chat – Available on our website
On-site visits – Our expert sales engineers can provide in-person demos and application support. Email [email protected] to arrange a visit or call us.
Let us help you find the right line scan camera for your application. Contact us today!
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