Description
Key Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Basler |
| Product Family | A400 Series |
| Model | A404K (monochrome); A404kc (color) |
| Sensor Type | Progressive-scan CMOS |
| Active Resolution | 2352 × 1726 pixels |
| Pixel Size | 7 µm × 7 µm |
| Optical Format | 1.25-inch |
| Max Frame Rate | 96 fps at full resolution |
| Video Interface | CameraLink |
| CameraLink Configuration | 8-tap 8-bit at 96 fps; 4-tap 8-bit/10-bit at 48 fps |
| CameraLink Clock | 50 MHz |
| Shading Correction | PRNU, DSNU, FPN |
| AOI Feature | Multiple AOI sequencer, frame-to-frame |
| Sync Mode | External trigger or free-run |
| Exposure Control | Level control or programmable |
| Supply Voltage | 12 VDC ±10% |
| Max Power | 7.2 W |
| Lens Mount | F-mount (C-mount adapter may be available) |
| Dimensions | Approx. 42 × 90 × 90 mm (without lens adapter) |
| Weight | Max 615 g |
Product Introduction
Swapping out a legacy machine vision camera without confirming the CameraLink tap configuration is a fast way to end up with a black screen and a frustrated integrator. The Basler A404K sits in that older high-speed tier where 96 fps at 2352×1726 was genuinely competitive, but where interface details matter more than they do with modern plug-and-play GigE or USB3 models.
This is a Basler A400-series area scan camera built around a 2352×1726 progressive-scan CMOS sensor with 7 µm pixels. It outputs over CameraLink at up to 96 fps full resolution in 8-tap 8-bit mode, or 48 fps in 4-tap 8-bit/10-bit mode, with a 50 MHz CameraLink clock. Onboard features include PRNU, DSNU, and FPN shading correction plus a multiple AOI sequencer that can change AOI settings frame-to-frame without delay. Because the A404K is discontinued, procurement risk is less about raw performance and more about matching the correct CameraLink configuration, lens mount, and frame grabber compatibility.
BASLER A404K
QA/QC Transparency SOP
- Intake & Origin Verification — Confirm Basler A404K on the label, record serial number, hardware revision, lens mount type, and CameraLink connector configuration. Photograph the rear connectors, mounting holes, and any option tags.
- Live Functional Testing — Mount the camera in a test fixture with a compatible CameraLink frame grabber. Verify image acquisition at full 2352×1726 resolution, confirm 96 fps operation, and test external trigger response.
- Electrical Parameter Tests — Measure 12 VDC supply current under load, verify no excessive draw beyond the 7.2 W maximum, and check CameraLink signal integrity on the frame grabber side. Inspect the lens mount for mechanical wear.
- Firmware/Config Verification — Read camera configuration registers via the Basler SDK or frame grabber utility. Confirm tap geometry (8-tap vs 4-tap), bit depth, AOI sequencer behavior, and shading correction settings.
- Final QC & Anti-Static Packaging — Log test results, reset to a known baseline configuration if authorized, apply asset tag, and pack in ESD-safe packaging. Include CameraLink cable pinout notes if available.
Field Engineer Gotchas
- CameraLink Tap Mismatch — The A404K can run 8-tap 8-bit at 96 fps or 4-tap 8-bit/10-bit at 48 fps. If the frame grabber is configured for the wrong tap geometry, you will get no image or a corrupted image. Always match the camera output mode to the frame grabber lookup table.
- Lens Mount Confusion — The A404K is listed with an F-mount, but some surplus units may ship with C-mount adapters. An unexpected mount change breaks focus distance and field-of-view calculations. Verify the physical mount before ordering replacement lenses.
- Frame Grabber Compatibility — This is not a GigE or USB3 camera. It requires a CameraLink frame grabber with the correct cabling and configuration. Dropping it into a modern USB3-only vision PC will not work without the proper capture hardware.
- Discontinued Support Risk — The is discontinued, so firmware updates, SDK support, and replacement units are limited. If the camera fails in a running system, you may not find an identical spare quickly. Keep at least one verified backup on hand.
- AOI Sequencer Misconfiguration — The multiple AOI sequencer is powerful but can cause unexpected behavior if left configured from a previous application. Reset AOI settings during commissioning unless the existing configuration is documented.
BASLER A404K
Application Scenarios
- High-speed web inspection — Captures fast-moving material surfaces at 96 fps, suitable for detecting scratches, stains, or print defects on production lines.
- Precision dimensional measurement — The 2352×1726 resolution with 7 µm pixels provides sufficient detail for gauging machined parts or electronic components.
- PCB assembly inspection — Multiple AOI sequencing allows different regions of a board to be inspected with different settings in rapid succession.
- Legacy vision system maintenance — Replaces failed A400-series cameras in older CameraLink-based inspection cells where upgrading the entire vision architecture is not feasible.
FAQ
No. The uses CameraLink output. Do not confuse it with Basler ace GigE or USB3 models that may carry similar “4 MP” naming.
What frame rate does it achieve at full resolution?
Up to 96 fps at 2352×1726 in 8-tap 8-bit CameraLink mode. In 4-tap 8-bit or 10-bit mode, the maximum drops to 48 fps.
Is this camera still in production?
No. The is discontinued. Surplus and refurbished units are the primary supply source.
What lens mount does it use?
The standard configuration is F-mount, though some units may include C-mount adapters. Confirm the physical mount before ordering lenses.
Can it run without a frame grabber?
No. CameraLink requires a compatible frame grabber card. It cannot connect directly to a standard Ethernet or USB port.
Does it support color imaging?
The is monochrome. A color variant, A404kc, exists in the A400 series.
Do you supply tested surplus units?
Yes. Units can be provided with part-number verification, CameraLink functional testing, configuration readout, and ESD packaging. Tap geometry and lens mount should be confirmed before shipment.
