PoE camera: The VIU2 is here!

Our new smart camera with Power over Ethernet (PoE)

The VIU2 is now available to order! Our evoVIU smart camera has received an update. Thanks to the numerous projects and use cases in recent years, we have been able to gather a lot of experience and integrate it into our new camera. In the world of Machine Vision, it is essential to stay innovative in order to meet the growing demands. One common requirement was a camera with Power over Ethernet (PoE). Surprise: The VIU2 is exactly that – a smart PoE camera! In this article, we dive into the details of this new feature, highlight the benefits for our customers and explain why this change was necessary.

What is the VIU2?

The VIU2 camera is our latest model, developed for high-precision image processing tasks in industrial applications. With a new CPU and NPU, expanded SD card, global shutter and the integration of PoE, the VIU2 not only offers outstanding image quality, but also simpler and more efficient installation. These advanced specifications ensure that the VIU2 meets even the most demanding Machine Vision requirements. But first, what exactly is PoE?

Power over Ethernet (PoE) is a technology that makes it possible to transmit electrical energy via standardized Ethernet cables. This means that both data and power run over the same cable, which greatly simplifies the installation and maintenance of network devices. PoE is based on the IEEE 802.3af and 802.3at standards, which define the technical requirements for power transmission via Ethernet cables. The VIU2 camera uses the IEEE 802.3at PoE Type 1 standard, which provides up to 13 watts of power. PoE is often used in networks to operate devices such as IP cameras, VoIP telephones, WLAN access points and other network-based devices. The technology offers a flexible and cost-effective solution for power supply and data transmission in various applications.

Why the change to a PoE camera was necessary

Although the integration of the evoVIU has always been quite straightforward, we are now convinced that the VIU2 camera with PoE can be integrated into existing systems even more quickly and easily. The elimination of additional cabling for power supplies inevitably saves time and resources. But these are not all the advantages of PoE cameras. In addition, there is the following:

Simpler cabling: A single Ethernet cable transmits both data and power, making cabling much simpler.
Reduced costs: Fewer cables and no need for separate power supplies lead to cost savings.
Increased flexibility: cameras can be installed more easily in different locations without having to worry about the power supply.

Various customer feedbacks showed that there is a great need for simpler and cost-efficient solutions. By integrating PoE into the VIU2 camera, we meet these needs while providing the high performance our customers expect.

The advantages for users of a PoE camera are manifold

Users benefit from simpler installation and maintenance. Thanks to PoE, the VIU2 only requires a single cable for power and data transmission. This reduces the installation effort and simplifies maintenance considerably. Cameras can also be installed in places where no power source is accessible, which is particularly advantageous in industrial plants.

It is also important to bear in mind the costs that can be saved with a PoE camera. The ability to transmit data and power via the same cable eliminates the cost of additional power cables and power supply units. The general cabling and the concept for cable ducts and labeling are also simplified. In addition, the efficient power transmission through PoE results in lower energy consumption, which reduces the overall costs of installation and operation.

In addition to the points already mentioned, the integration of a PoE camera also leads to improved reliability and stability. Reducing the number of cables and connections minimizes potential sources of error and increases the reliability of the system. PoE ensures a constant power supply, which results in more stable camera performance. The lower voltage also reduces the risk of short circuits, allowing the camera to run continuously without the risk of failure.

What still works with all this conversion is that you have connection options for hardware triggers and external light. The transformation to 24V enables the simple connection of additional accessories such as hardware triggers and external light sources, which further increases the flexibility and application possibilities of the camera. This already worked with the VIU1 and was often required. That is why we will of course continue to offer this service.

Discover the new VIU2 PoE camera

The introduction of the new VIU2 camera with Power over Ethernet marks a significant step in the further development of our industrial image processing solutions. By integrating PoE, we offer our customers a simpler, more cost-effective and more reliable solution that meets the most demanding requirements. The improvements in installation, maintenance and performance of the VIU2 open up new possibilities for a wide range of industrial applications.

If you want to get to know the VIU2 even better: You can find them here!