When it comes to vision computing, it is important that you select the right components to accurately gather the data needed for your application. In that regard, deciding on the right industrial camera and imaging system is imperative.

Industrial cameras and imaging systems capture and record images with sensors. It is often done for analysis and processing purposes. The sensors capture images with the help of an electric shutter. The latter controls the sensor’s photon cells exposure and decides if pixel exposure is done as either a complete matrix or line by line.

There are two main electric shutter options: rolling shutter or global shutter. However, which one is best for vision computing?

What is a Rolling Shutter?

A rolling shutter works by exposing the pixel rows, one by one, with a temporal offset. Starting with the top row, it begins collecting the light before finishing. It then proceeds to the next row, again collecting light. This does result in a delay between the end and start time of light collection for successive rows, although the total time for each row’s light collection is the same.

What is a Global Shutter?

A global shutter works by allowing the sensors to expose pixels when it starts and stops simultaneously. It does this for every image acquisition during the programmed exposure period. Once the exposure time is complete, the readout for pixel data begins and continues row by row until it has read all pixel data. The result: non-distorted images are produced (without any skewing or wobbling) even when capturing fast-moving objects.

Which is Most Suitable for Vision Computing?

Ultimately, there is no definitive answer – it is down to the goals you have for your vision computing application. That might sound like a way to avoid the question, but it’s true. Due to how important the decision is, it makes sense to work with an industrial PC specialist like things-embedded.com. Expertise in producing a bespoke system can be imperative in ensuring you receive the right vision computer for your needs. They will be able to engineer a solution that solves the challenging demands you throw its way.

However, before you take that step, below are a few main differences to think about for both rolling and global shutters.

Rolling Shutter Pros and Cons

One of the notable advantages of a rolling shutter over a global shutter is that it has lower ambient noise when in use. If you’re operating on a budget with your vision computing solution, it’s also the cheaper option of the two. However, a rolling shutter does have a notable disadvantage; when capturing fast-moving objects, image distortion can occur.

Global Shutter Pros and Cons

With a global shutter, those fast-moving objects are not a problem. It is built to be able to capture these objects without issues such as motion blur and artifacts. On the flipside, a global shutter is more expensive and has higher ambient noise than its rolling counterpart.