When you are working with machine vision, security cameras, or any application that requires optical components, it’s essential to understand the specifics of the lenses you are using. M12 lenses are widely popular in various industries, including industrial cameras, robotics, and surveillance systems. If you are asking, “What size is a M12 lenses?” you are probably looking for clarity about the dimensions and fitting requirements of these lenses.

What are M12 Lenses?

M12 lenses are a type of compact lens designed for use with cameras and optical systems, typically in industrial or surveillance applications. The “M12” refers to the size of the lens’s thread mount, where “M” stands for the metric designation and “12” represents the thread diameter in millimeters. The M12 lens mount, a well-known standard, offers versatility and integrates easily into compact camera systems.

These lenses offer varied focal lengths, fields of view, and sensor sizes, perfect for machine vision, automotive, and robotics uses.

What Size is a M12 Lens?

The size of a M12 lens generally refers to two main dimensions: the thread diameter and the lens diameter.

• Thread Diameter: The M12 thread diameter is 12mm, which is standard for many types of compact lenses. This thread size fits many small cameras/sensors, especially in industrial, automotive, and robotics fields. The “M12” label ensures that the lens can be securely mounted to these devices without the need for custom adapters.
• Lens Diameter: The lens diameter varies depending on the specific design of the M12 lens. Typically, M12 lenses feature a smaller diameter compared to other lens types such as C-mount lenses. The lens diameter can range from 5mm to 12mm or more, with the most common size being around 8mm. This small diameter excels in tight spaces or when the camera module must stay compact.

CCTV 6mm M12 board lens

Common Focal Lengths of M12 Lenses

Focal length is a critical factor in the performance of a lens, determining the field of view and depth of field. M12 lenses are available in various focal lengths to meet the needs of different camera systems:

• 1. Wide-angle lenses: These lenses usually feature 2mm-6mm focal lengths, ideal for wider views in surveillance and security cameras.
• 2. Standard lenses: With focal lengths of around 8mm to 12mm, these lenses are commonly used in machine vision for general-purpose tasks.
• 3. Telephoto lenses: For longer-range vision, M12 lenses with focal lengths of 16mm to 25mm or more are available, allowing for zoomed-in or high-precision applications.

Applications of M12 Lenses

M12 lenses are widely used in industries where compact size and versatility are required. Some common applications include:

• 1. Surveillance Cameras: Small and discrete security cameras often use M12 lenses due to their compact size and ease of integration.
• 2. Industrial Cameras: Many industrial automation systems use M12 lenses for tasks such as quality inspection, machine vision, and process monitoring.
• 3. Automotive Systems: In self-driving cars and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), M12 lenses are utilized for cameras and sensors that help with navigation, parking assistance, and collision detection.
• 4. Robotics: The small form factor of M12 lenses makes them ideal for robotic vision systems, which often need to be lightweight and compact.

Choosing the Right M12 Lens for Your Application

When selecting a M12 lens for your application, consider several factors to ensure optimal performance. Here are a few key things to look for:

• Focal Length: Depending on your needs, choose a lens with an appropriate focal length for the field of view and depth of field you require.
• Sensor Compatibility: Make sure the M12 lens you select is compatible with the size of your camera’s sensor. Different lenses are designed to work with specific sensor sizes, such as 1/2.5” or 1/3” sensors.
• Lens Material and Coating: The material and coatings on the lens can impact image quality, particularly in high-contrast or outdoor environments. High-quality coatings can help reduce glare and improve color accuracy.
• Mounting Requirements: Ensure the M12 lens is compatible with the mounting system on your camera or optical device. Some M12 lenses come with additional mounting adapters to accommodate different devices.

M12 CCTV lens 3-Megapixel IR corrected

FAQs

1. What is the difference between M12 and other types of camera lenses?

The primary difference between M12 lenses and other types like C-mount or CS-mount lenses is the thread size. M12 lenses have a 12mm thread diameter, making them more compact and suitable for small cameras. In contrast, C-mount lenses have a larger thread size of 1 inch (25.4mm), offering more flexibility in terms of focal length and sensor compatibility but requiring more space.

2. Can M12 lenses be used in outdoor environments?

Yes, M12 lenses can be used in outdoor environments, especially when they are equipped with weatherproof or anti-glare coatings. However, for optimal performance in harsh conditions, make sure the lens has the appropriate protection, such as waterproof sealing or UV-resistant coatings.

3. Are M12 lenses suitable for high-resolution cameras?

M12 lenses are generally suitable for most industrial and machine vision cameras, but their small size can sometimes limit their ability to support very high-resolution sensors. If you are working with high-resolution cameras, it’s essential to choose M12 lenses that are specifically designed for such systems, as they will be optimized for the highest possible image quality.

1/4″ 2.8mm M12 Wide-angle Car Lens

Conclusion

M12 lenses offer a versatile and compact optical solution for a wide range of applications. Understanding the size, thread diameter, and focal length options is essential when selecting the right lens for your needs. Whether you are working with industrial cameras, security systems, or robotics, M12 lenses provide the flexibility and performance required for these demanding environments.

By choosing the correct M12 lens for your specific application, you ensure the best image quality, system compatibility, and overall efficiency.