New networking technology for machine vision data can tie in decision makers from a variety of departments or locations, and that data can be viewed wherever and whenever it is needed.
In the past, factory machine-vision systems were traditionally linked to a central processor. While this approach did have its advantages, such as limited computer hardware costs, it also had various drawbacks. Because the processing was divided among multiple cameras, system performance was diminished. Further, centrally controlled vision systems were susceptible to downtime. If one camera had a problem, the whole system was apt to go offline.
But today, a new breed of vision sensors feature low-cost, built-in computing power that eliminate the need for central control, as well as new communications platforms that enhance the interconnectivity and interoperability of the technology. These "smart cameras" were developed in the early 1990s and have evolved into the de facto standard in affordable, machine vision inspection.