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Lens Selection & Installation

This guide shows you how to select the right C-mount lens for your application and safely install it on the OV80i camera. The lens choice determines your Field of View (FOV) and working distance.

When to Use This Guide: When you need to change working distance, adjust field of view, or replace a damaged lens.

Prerequisites​

  • OV80i camera system
  • C-mount replacement lens

Step 1: Calculate Required Lens Size​

1.1 Determine Your Requirements​

  • Working Distance: How far the camera will be from parts
  • Field of View: How wide an area you need to inspect
  • Part Size: Dimensions of the parts you're inspecting

1.2 Use an Online FOV Calculator​

Due to the wide variety of C-mount lenses, it is best to use an online Field of View calculator to determine the correct focal length for your needs. You will need the following sensor information:

Camera Specifications:

  • Sensor Format: 1/1.8"
  • Resolution: 3840 x 2160
  • Aspect Ratio: 16:9

1.3 Online Calculator​

Use the OV80i Calculator for precise FOV calculations based on your specific mounting distance and lens requirements.

Step 2: Lens Installation​

2.1 Install Lens​

  1. Power down the camera
  2. Remove the dust cap from the camera's C-mount opening.
  3. Screw the C-mount lens into the camera by turning clockwise.
  4. Hand-tighten only - do NOT use tools to avoid damage.
warning

Over-tightening can damage the lens or camera threads.

2.2 Adjust Focus and Aperture​

  1. Power on the camera.
  2. Open the lens aperture to its widest setting (lowest f-number).
  3. Adjust the focus ring on the lens until the image is sharp at your desired working distance.
  4. Adjust the aperture ring to achieve the desired depth of field and exposure.
  5. Save your imaging settings in the software.

Safety and Best Practices​

Lens Handling​

  • Handle lenses carefully - avoid touching glass surfaces
  • Use lens cleaning cloth for any smudges
  • Store removed lenses in protective cases
  • Check threads for damage before installation

Installation Tips​

  • Always hand-tighten - never use tools on lens threads
  • Test fit before final tightening
  • Keep screws organized during disassembly
  • Power down camera before lens changes

Success! Your Lens is Installed​

Your OV80i camera now has:

✅ Correct lens for your application requirements

✅ Proper field of view for part inspection

✅ Optimal working distance for your setup

✅ Secure mounting for reliable operation

Next Steps​

After lens installation:

  1. Configure imaging settings for new lens
  2. Update focus for optimal sharpness
  3. Test with actual parts to verify coverage
  4. Adjust camera position if needed for optimal FOV
  5. Document lens configuration for future reference

🔗 See Also​