Skip to main content

Enhancing Vision System Performance for Industrial Automation

Smart warehousing and smart manufacturing demand camera and lighting sensors that deliver exceptional quality control, whether for fulfillment services or production processes. Recent innovation in connectivity provides the high data rates, seamless communication and rugged durability needed for high-performance systems. Components from Molex aid machine vision system designers with advanced connectors, industrial-grade housing and custom configurations, offering precision and scalability for rapidly evolving logistics and manufacturing operations.

Advanced Connectivity Solutions for High-Performing Machine Vision Systems


Developing high-performance vision systems involves addressing complex design challenges, such as supporting advanced algorithms for machine learning and optimizing 3D vision technologies for precise image capture and lighting. These systems must ensure seamless data processing with minimal latency and data loss, even during critical decision-making workflows. Adding to the complexity, harsh industrial conditions such as dust, moisture, vibrations and extreme temperatures demand durable and reliable solutions.

To meet these demands, vision systems require advanced connectivity solutions that enable high-speed data management, exceptional signal integrity and robust performance in factory and warehouse environments. Ruggedized components are essential for maintaining durability while supporting high-speed requirements and protecting against environmental factors.

Molex supports system engineers with miniaturized solutions for sensors and cameras, leveraging expertise in data, signal and power connectivity. FAKRA interfaces enable high-resolution video with minimal signal degradation, while RF connectors enhance signal integrity and reduce interference. IP67 and IP69K-rated industrial connectors and cable assemblies ensure machine vision reliability even in extreme environments. 


Processing Unit


High-performing vision systems require advanced algorithms to manage high-speed data input and output for quality inspections during manufacturing, labeling and packaging. Reliable connection options and advanced signaling technologies provide robust solutions for compact processing units operating in high-heat environments. High-speed, low-voltage differential signal interconnects and ultracompact designs from Molex deliver superior data transmission and signal integrity.

Camera & Light Data Processing

  Pitch Circuits Current Wire Gauge Voltage (Max.) Operating Temperature
Mini-Fit Connectors 4.20mm 4 to 18 Up to 20.5A 28 to 14 AWG 600V Up to 105°C
SlimStack Connectors 0.35 to 1.25mm 6 to 240 Up to 15.0A   100V Up to 125°C
FFC / FPC Connectors 0.20 to 2.00mm 2 to 120 0.5A   50V Up to 150°C
Premo-Flex FFC Jumpers 0.25 to 1.25mm 2 to 120 0.2 to 1.4A   60V -40° to +105°C

Processing Unit Interconnect

  Pitch Current (Max.) Voltage (Max.) Wire Gauge Termination Style
DuraClik Connectors 2.00mm 3.0A 250V 30 to 22 AWG SMT

Communication Interfaces


Industrial-grade signal integrity is critical for minimizing latency and preventing data loss or corruption during image capture, analysis and decision-making. Advanced components and protective assemblies address the need for rugged and reliable communication interfaces in harsh environments. Molex delivers high-precision RF coaxial connectors, IPX7 and IPX9K-rated Camera I/O backshell housing assemblies and full-length cable shielding for superior signal performance and effective electromagnetic interference (EMI) reduction.

Wireless Communication

  Connector Configuration Frequency Impedance
RF Coaxial Connectors 1.00mm Plug to 1.00mm Jack; 1.00mm Narrow Block End Launch Jack, Screw Attachment Up to 110 GHz 50 Ohms

Camera / Light I/O Module

  Pitch Circuits or Ports Current Data Rate Sealed Cable Type
HSAutoLink Connectors 1.27mm 6, 12 1.5A 13Gbps X Twisted pair
High-Speed FAKRA Mini (HFM) Coaxial Cable   Single, Dual, Quad, Custom   20Gbps X Coax
  Circuits Current Data Speed Voltage (Max.) Operating Temperature
USB Connectors Up to 25 3.0, 5.0, 6.0A Up to 40Gbps 48V -30 to +85°C; -40 to +85°C
  Configuration Frequency Sealing Class Protection Material
FAKRA Camera Backshell Assembly FAKRA interface Up to 3 GHz IPX7, IPX9K EMI protection with PVD coating Plastic and metal backshells

Data and Signal External Connector Systems


Data and signal external connector systems must withstand harsh industrial environments, including exposure to dust, moisture, vibrations, quick movements and high temperatures. Rugged designs and advanced protection measures meet the demands of operating conditions. Industrial connector systems from Molex feature heavy-duty die-cast construction, IEC 61076-2-101 compliance, EMI and RFI shielding, IP67 and IP68-rated sealing as well as anti-vibration capabilities.

  Coding Poles IP Rating Field Attachables Shielded Cable Material & Length
Micro-Change M12 Connectors and Cable Assemblies X-Code, D-Code 4, 8 IP67, IP68 X X PUR, PVC, weld-slag oil-resistant (WSOR) TPE, up to 100m
Industrial SPE Connectors and Cable Assemblies T1   IP20, 
IP65/67
X Only shielded PUR and TPE 
up to 40m