Replacing a camera

[RGreg]

I'm looking to replace a Mightex USB camera that doesn't work well with LV (there are several references on this board about this issue).  Does anyone have any suggestions on what manufacturers/models they've had good luck using?

[ScottSmith]

What are your applications requirements or goals?   There are lots of options, but depends on spectrum of price vs. performance you are looking for, whether for a single dedicated use, flexible for diverse uses over time, etc.

[RGreg]

The existing camera is a monochrome, board-level 1.3MP camera with an active area roughly 5x5mm.  I figure that sets my minimum criteria.  I can go a little smaller on the active area, and I can certainly go bigger on the pixel count.

But what I'm really looking for is a general suggestion as to what manufacturers fully support DirectShow or perhaps provide LV drivers.  From what I've read on this forum, Mightex cameras have a lot of problems.

And no, I didn't select the camera originally... 

[ScottSmith]

That's a good start on specs...

Do you want to stick with board-level or also consider housed?

Do you want to stick with USB, or also consider 1394b and/or GigE Vision?

[RGreg]

Sticking with USB is preferable.  This camera isn't going on the network, and I don't need to buy an extra card for Firewire access (the computer doesn't have a 1394b port).

[Tejinder_G.]

Hi Greg,

It's hard to recommend a specific model, because our IMAQdx supports all DirectShow compliant cameras.  That's why NI doesn't have a specific list of supported cameras.  Of course, as you've noticed, some "DirectShow" compliant cameras may have some issues with their drivers. 

What I can tell you is that I've worked with Creative Labs cameras (VF0330 and VF0320), and they seem to work pretty well, haven't had any issues up to this point.

Logitech also should be pretty good.

[RGreg]

Thanks for the reply, but I'm not looking for web cameras.  I need more of a board-level camera without extra lensing.  Right now I'm looking at maybe something from Pixelink, Thorlabs, or several other smaller vendors.