Introduction

Choosing the right C-mount lens supplier is essential for businesses involved in machine vision, factory automation, and precision inspection. The performance of your entire imaging system depends not only on the camera sensor but also on the quality and compatibility of the lens.

However, many buyers face common challenges:

• Confusion between C-mount and CS-mount standards
• Difficulty selecting the correct focal length and sensor size
• Uncertainty about supplier reliability and production capability

This guide is designed to help engineers, distributors, and OEM buyers clearly understand C-mount lenses and confidently choose the right supplier.

IR corrected C-mount ITS traffic CCTV lens

What Is a C-Mount Lens?

A C-mount lens is a standardized lens type widely used in industrial and scientific imaging systems.

Key Characteristics

• Thread standard: 1”-32 UNF
• Flange focal distance: 17.526mm
• Compatible with a wide range of industrial cameras
• Common in machine vision and CCTV systems

C-Mount vs CS-Mount Comparison

Applications of C-Mount Lenses

C-mount lenses are widely used across multiple industries due to their flexibility and standardization.

Common Applications

• Machine vision systems
  • Defect detection
  • Measurement and inspection
• Factory automation
  • Robotic guidance
  • Assembly line monitoring
• Medical imaging
  • Diagnostic devices
  • Laboratory equipment
• Security & surveillance
• Microscopy and scientific research
• Barcode and QR code scanning

Key Parameters When Choosing a C-Mount Lens

Understanding lens specifications is critical when selecting the right product.

1. Focal Length

• Determines field of view (FOV)
• Short focal length → wider view
• Long focal length → narrower, magnified view

2. Sensor Size Compatibility

• Must match camera sensor to avoid vignetting
• Common formats:
  • 1/4″
  • 1/3″
  • 1/2″
  • 2/3″
  • 1″

3. Aperture (F-Number)

• Controls light entering the lens
• Affects:
  • Brightness
  • Depth of field

4. Resolution (Megapixel Matching)

• Lens resolution must match or exceed sensor resolution
• Critical for high-precision inspection

5. Distortion

• Important for:
  • Measurement systems
  • Calibration accuracy

Parameter Overview Table

How to Choose a Reliable C-Mount Lens Supplier

Selecting the right supplier is just as important as choosing the right lens.

Key Evaluation Criteria

1. Manufacturing Capability

• In-house production vs trading company
• Precision optical assembly

2. OEM/ODM Customization

• Custom focal length
• Special coatings
• Mechanical design adjustments

3. Quality Control

• MTF (Modulation Transfer Function) testing
• Consistent batch production
• Strict inspection processes

4. Certifications

• ISO quality management
• RoHS compliance

5. Supply Chain Stability

• Lead time reliability
• Bulk order capability
• Export experience

6. Technical Support

• Lens selection guidance
• Application-specific recommendations

25mm C mount industrial lens

Why Choose TOWIN as Your C-Mount Lens Supplier

TOWIN focuses on providing reliable optical solutions for global customers in industrial and machine vision fields.

Key Advantages

• Wide range of C-mount industrial lenses
• Strong OEM/ODM customization capability
• Stable production and quality consistency
• Export experience serving overseas markets
• Technical support for application-specific needs

Suitable for:

• Distributors
• System integrators
• Equipment manufacturers (OEMs)

Types of C-Mount Lenses Available

Different applications require different lens types.

Common Categories

• Fixed focal length lenses
  • Stable and cost-effective
• Zoom lenses
  • Flexible field of view
• Low distortion lenses
  • Ideal for measurement
• High-resolution lenses
  • Suitable for high-MP sensors
• Large sensor lenses
  • For 1″ or larger sensors

FAQs

Q1: What is the difference between C-mount and CS-mount lenses?

• The main difference is flange focal distance
• C-mount: 17.526mm
• CS-mount: 12.5mm

Q2: Can I use a C-mount lens on a CS-mount camera?

• Yes, with a 5mm adapter ring

Q3: How do I choose the right focal length?

• Based on:
  • Working distance
  • Field of view
  • Sensor size

Q4: What industries use C-mount lenses?

• Machine vision
• Automation
• Medical imaging
• Surveillance

Q5: What defines a reliable C-mount lens supplier?

• Consistent quality
• Customization capability
• Technical support
• Stable delivery

Conclusion

Choosing the right lens is only part of building a reliable imaging system—the supplier behind it is equally important. By understanding key parameters such as focal length, sensor compatibility, and optical performance, buyers can make more informed decisions.

Equally, evaluating manufacturing capability, quality control, and customization support ensures long-term project success.

If your business requires stable performance, scalable supply, and expert support, working with a professional C-mount lens supplier like TOWIN can help you achieve consistent and high-quality imaging results.

Contact our engineering team today at mailto:info@towin-elec.com to discuss your project requirements. As a direct factory, we ensure your lenses are selected and shipped out in the fastest way possible.