The M12 lens, also known as an S-mount lens, is a staple in compact imaging systems, favored for its versatility, affordability, and ease of integration. But one question often arises among engineers and hobbyists alike: What size sensor does an M12 lens support?

Understanding M12 Lens Sensor Compatibility

M12 lenses are designed to work with image sensors ranging from 1/4″ to 1/2.5″ in size, though some models may extend compatibility to larger formats like 1/1.8″. The key factors determining sensor compatibility include:

1. Image Circle Diameter: The lens must project an image circle large enough to cover the sensor’s active area.
2. Focal Length & Field of View (FOV): Shorter focal lengths (e.g., 2.8mm) typically support wider FOVs, making them ideal for smaller sensors.
3. Back Focal Length (BFL): The distance between the lens’s rear element and the sensor must align with the camera module’s design.

Here’s a breakdown of common sensor sizes and their compatibility with M12 lenses:

Towin’s M12 Lens Product Lineup

Towin (official website) is a renowned manufacturer of precision optics, offering a diverse range of M12 lenses tailored for specific sensor sizes and applications. Here’s a closer look at their key offerings:

1/4″ Sensor M12 Lenses

• Focal Lengths: 1.8mm, 2.1mm, 2.8mm
• Features: Ultra-wide FOV (up to 180° diagonal), low distortion, and IR-corrected coatings.
• Applications: Smart home security, doorbell cameras, and robotics.

Pinhole lens 2.1mm 1/4″ IR MP HD CCTV M12 mount lens

1/3″ Sensor M12 Lenses

• Focal Lengths: 2.8mm, 3.6mm, 6mm
• Features: Balanced FOV and resolution, high light transmission (>90%), and temperature stability.
• Applications: Dashcams, industrial inspection, and retail analytics.

1/2.5″ Sensor M12 Lenses

• Focal Lengths: 4mm, 6mm, 8mm
• Features: High-resolution optics (up to 5MP), low chromatic aberration, and compact design.
• Applications: Drone gimbals, AR/VR headsets, and medical imaging.

Why Choose Towin’s M12 Lenses?

Towin stands out in the market due to its commitment to quality and innovation. Here’s what sets their M12 lenses apart:

• Precision Engineering: Advanced optical design minimizes distortion and maximizes sharpness.
• Durability: Lenses are built to withstand harsh environments, with IP67-rated housing options.
• Customization: Towin offers bespoke solutions for OEMs, including custom focal lengths and coatings.
• Cost-Effectiveness: High performance without the premium price tag, making them ideal for mass production.

Technical Specifications: Key Parameters to Consider

When selecting an M12 lens, pay attention to these critical specs:

1. Focal Length: Determines the FOV. Shorter lengths (e.g., 2.8mm) offer wider views but lower magnification.
2. Aperture (F-number): Lower F-numbers (e.g., F2.0) allow more light, improving low-light performance.
3. Modulation Transfer Function (MTF): Measures optical resolution; higher MTF values indicate sharper images.
4. Distortion: Barrel or pincushion distortion can affect image quality; look for lenses with <3% distortion.

Towin’s lenses excel in these areas, with MTF values often exceeding 70% at the center and <2% distortion in most models.

M12-mount board lens

Conclusion: The Perfect Match for Your Sensor

The M12 lens’s compatibility with 1/4″, 1/3″, and 1/2.5″ sensors makes it a go-to choice for compact imaging systems. Towin’s lineup offers unmatched versatility, ensuring that whether you’re designing a surveillance camera or a drone gimbal, there’s an M12 lens tailored to your needs.

By prioritizing precision, durability, and affordability, Towin has cemented its reputation as a leader in the optics industry. For engineers and manufacturers seeking reliable, high-performance M12 lenses, Towin’s solutions are a testament to innovation and quality.

Don’t compromise on image quality—choose Towin’s M12 lenses for your next project.