Product Release From Advanced Illumination: DCS 400E & DCS 800E Multi-Channel Quad Controllers

November 26, 2020

Advanced illumination released its new DCS-400E and DCS-800E multi-channel controllers in early August of 2020. The DCS-400E (Quad Controller) features 4 output channels, while the DCS-800E (Quad X2) features 8 output channels. These Quad Controllers are ideal for applications that require multi-channel lights and/or multi-light stations. Multi-light stations are currently limited to a group of identical light heads; a future development will allow the Quad Controllers to drive up to eight different lights simultaneously. Capable of providing sequenced strobing, the DCS-400E and DCS-800E are perfect for computational imaging applications, including photometric stereo; extended depth of field; combined bright field + dark field; high dynamic range; and high-resolution color. The controllers are engineered with Ai’s proprietary SignaTech control system which optimizes light performance, delivers exceptional illumination quality, and provides long-term stability for any inspection system.

Along with the capability of being custom-programmed, the DCS-400E and DCS-800E have built-in, pre-programmed sequencing, allowing the controllers to cycle through pre-determined lighting “recipes”. This provides users the ability to automatically time a lighting sequence and output a correlated camera trigger, and to do so through multiple pre-programmed routines. As an example, by using the DCS’ frame-start signal, it is possible to synchronize a camera exposure to capture each channel as they flash in a sequence. This is crucial in photometric stereo applications where the camera must be carefully synchronized in order to capture multiple flashes.

The Quad Controller family is not limited to computational imaging; the controllers provide sequenced overdrive strobing or continuous-on drive modes, making the DCS-400E and DCS-800E perfect for standard machine vision applications requiring multi-channel lights and/or multi-light stations. By using one controller in a multi-light line, users can conserve valuable space and capital by reducing the number of controllers needed to achieve multiple inspections in one station. And since the DCS-400E and DCS-800E are housed in a compact enclosure with DIN rail mounting, they deliver effective thermal dissipation while integrating seamlessly into vision system applications.

The Ai Quad Controllers are currently compatible with the DF198 MicroBriteTM Diffuse Dark Field Ring Light Series, along with a number of other Ai lighting products. An adapter will soon be available to control all Ai lighting products whose power requirements don’t exceed that of the Quad Controllers’ output capacity.

Source

Related Articles


Latest Articles

  • Pilz’s International Online Training Offer: Secure Your Place Now for 2025!

    March 6, 2025 Pilz is offering online training courses in 2025 on popular topics such as Introduction to Machinery Regulation, Fundamentals of Machinery Safety, Fundamentals of Industrial Security, Basics of CE Marking, Safety Requirements and Integration of AGVs, Robot Safety and Integration, and many more. Make sure you register as soon as possible to secure… Read More…

  • Guide to Mechatronics – Part 8: Future Innovations

    Guide to Mechatronics – Part 8: Future Innovations

    March 5, 2025 The future of mechatronics is closely intertwined with the advancement of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), and machine learning. These technologies are not only enhancing the capabilities of mechatronic systems but are also opening new possibilities and applications. Artificial Intelligence (AI):  AI’s integration into mechatronic… Read More…


Featured Article

Revolutionizing Material Movement with Autonomous Mobile Robots

Revolutionizing Material Movement with Autonomous Mobile Robots

In today’s fast-paced manufacturing and logistics industries, the need for efficient and flexible material movement solutions has never been greater. Traditional methods like conveyor systems, forklifts, and manual pushcarts have served us well, but they come with limitations.

That’s why Omron is thrilled to announce the launch of their game-changing MD Series of Autonomous Mobile Robots (AMRs). Read more


Products

  • OnRobot Introduces the VGP30: Highest-Payload Vacuum Gripper for Enhanced Collaborative Automation

    March 7, 2025 The release marks OnRobot’s highest payload gripper to date, with intelligent control and seamless integration for palletizing and handling OnRobot has announced the release of its new VGP30 vacuum gripper. This powerful and robust 30 kg (66 lbs.) payload gripper is designed to excel at palletizing boxes and handling irregular shapes and… Read More…

  • New Base Power Supply from WAGO

    March 6, 2025 Get an excellent balance between price and power with WAGO’s new efficient, high-performance 2587 Base Power Supply Series The Base Power Supply Series with the industry-proven Push-in CAGE CLAMP® connection provides essential functionality during operation and stands out for its cost-effectiveness. The new devices offer quick, reliable and tool-free connections, along with… Read More…