When it comes to precision inspection and high-speed applications, line scan cameras are a cornerstone of modern industrial imaging. Unlike traditional area scan cameras that capture images in a two-dimensional array, line scan cameras capture images one line at a time, making them ideal for continuous, high-resolution imaging of fast-moving objects or large surfaces. 

What Is a Line Scan Camera?

A line scan camera contains a single row of pixels (or multiple rows in some configurations) that captures one line of an image at a time. As the object moves past the camera or the camera scans across the object, the system builds a complete image line by line. This setup is particularly advantageous in conveyor-based or web inspection systems, where parts or materials move in a linear fashion.

Key Advantages of Line Scan Cameras

1. Exceptional Resolution for Long Objects

Line scan cameras deliver high-resolution images of long or continuous surfaces such as printed materials, textiles, metal sheets and circuit boards. Because the image is built line by line, we aren’t limited by the physical size of the sensor like in area scan cameras.

2. No Image Distortion

In area scan systems, uneven lighting or object warping can result in distorted images. Line scan systems, combined with synchronized lighting and motion, eliminate these issues – delivering consistently sharp, undistorted images even at high speeds.

3. Consistent Illumination

Line scan setups allow for continuous and uniform lighting, which reduces shadows and hotspots. This consistent illumination is critical for applications requiring accurate surface inspection and defect detection.

4. High-Speed Capability

Line scan cameras are optimized for fast-moving applications and can reach speeds up to 200kHz, ensuring that no detail is missed even in rapid production environments.

5. Multispectral and Color Imaging

Many line scan models support color, NIR (near-infrared) and multispectral imaging, enabling users to capture a broad spectrum of data in a single pass –perfect for food inspection, recycling and pharmaceuticals.

Ideal Applications for Line Scan Cameras

• Web inspection (paper, textiles, films)
• Printed circuit board (PCB) inspection
• Glass or surface inspection
• Food and beverage packaging
• Recycling and sorting