Cameras for Photovoltaic Quality Control

Vision Components presents an intelligent camera which is able to record and process electroluminescence images for quality checks of solar wafers and photovoltaic modules. The VC4067/NIR features especially photosensitive technology which provides high-precision images at wavelengths up to 1,100 nm thanks to a unique sensor operation mode. It reliably detects and identifies defects such as micro cracks, shunts, and disconnected fingers. The resolution equals that of similar systems on the market without integrated intelligence. Unlike those, however, the VC solutions include all image processing electronics and do not require cooling systems.

Featuring an integrated 400 MHz processor from Texas Instruments, the VC4067/NIR has a computing power of 3,200 MIPS. Its 2/3" CCD sensor has a 1,280 x 1,024 pixel resolution, providing a maximum frame rate of 14 fps and a freely programmable exposure time from 5 µs to 17 s. The VC4067/NIR comes with RS232 and Ethernet interfaces and an external trigger input that enables jitter-free image capturing even at high reading frequencies. Standard configuration also includes four digital PLC inputs and four outputs and an SXGA video output. Measuring just 110 x 50 x 35 mm, the cameras can be easily integrated into applications with limited installation space.