IDS lenses: Overview of IDS lenses, technical details and selection advice
This video provides a clear, high-level introduction to IDS C‑mount lenses and explains how to choose the right optic for your machine vision application. You’ll learn how the IDS lens families differ, how the IDS Lens Finder tool works, and which optical parameters matter most for image quality and system performance.
We explore sensor compatibility, focal lengths, minimum object distances, pixel sizes, vignetting, distortion, and more - all explained in practical, accessible terms. Whether you're new to optics or simply want to optimise your IDS camera setup, this video gives you the essential knowledge to select the best lens with confidence.
Topics covered
- Get an overview of the IDS C-mount lens families and their specifications
- Learn how to use the IDS Lens Finder to select the right lens
- Understand how factors such as sensor format, pixel size, focal length and working distance influence your lens selection
- Understand selection criteria such as size, weight, filter thread and price for specific applications.
Video timeline
- 00:00 Introduction and agenda
- 00:56 IDS lens portfolio
- 01:58 Explanation of the part number
- 02:37 Explanation of IDS Lens Finder
- 04:14 Focal length
- 05:13 Results of the IDS Lens Finder
- 05:26 Optical format
- 06:21 Vignetting (mechanical vignetting)
- 07:45 Pixel format (pixel pitch, pixel size, monochrome and colour sensor)
- 09:45 Applications with colour cameras
- 10:24 Resolution
- 10:43 Lens recommendations
- 11:17 Minimum object distance
- 12:24 Macro series (Ma)
- 13:16 Aperture
- 14:17 Other considerations: size
- 14:55 Weight
- 15:05 Filter thread
- 15:29 Pricing
- 15:43 More specifications: lens datasheet
- 17:10 Field Angle or Angle of View
- 17:37 Distortion
- 18:45 Back Focal Length
- 19:13 Working temperature
- 19:40 Optical specifications datasheet
- 20:31 Summary
Who should watch
This video is ideal for machine vision engineers, system integrators, developers, and technical decision-makers who need to select the right lens for IDS cameras and want a clear, practical understanding of key optical parameters.
Watch now to simplify your lens selection process, optimise your imaging results, and make the most of your IDS camera system.