AC-501 Micro 1080P AHD Board Camera for Embedded & Industrial Equipment

Product Overview

The AC-501 is a 15x15mm mini AHD camera designed as a custom PCB board level camera for industrial and embedded integration. Powered by the Sony IMX323 sensor, it delivers 1080P AHD video with zero latency analog HD camera performance, making it ideal for substation panel AHD camera installations.

As an ODM embedded vision supplier, we provide full customization for board camera with custom lens options, cable lengths, housing, and integration to match specific OEM requirements. Compact in size (PCB 12×12 mm, holder 15×15 mm) and consuming only 12 V / 90 mA, this module is the ideal micro board camera for OEM customers who demand reliability, stability, and industrial-grade video transmission.

 

• Product: Mini 15×15mm Micro Low light AHD Camera with UTC function
• Sensor: Sony CMOS (IMX323)
• Output: AHD 1080P Analog Signal, direct connect with any standard AHD monitor and 2/4/8CH AHD DVR with same connector well
• Dimensions: 12×12mm PCB Board, Interchangeable Various M12 lens optional
• Features: Low-lux, Compact Size, Custom Cables/Lens/Mic/Waterproof Optional
• Applications: Industrial machines, Embedded Vision, Commercial Security Systems

 

Unique Advantage

• Ultra-Compact – fits in tight spaces (15×15mm board) with sony image sensor
• Interchangeable Design-various EFL M12 lens models optional available to extend your more industrial and commercial applications
• Real-time AHD Output – no latency, plug-and-play
• OEM/ODM Customization – tailored for system integrators
• Cost-Effective – positioned between cheap generics and Sony FCB premium

 

what difficulty or troubling problems it can solve in Embedded Vision Systems Applications?

Problems Solved:

• Miniature Vision for AI/ML at the Edge:
  • Problem: Developing compact embedded systems (e.g., drones, tiny robots, smart sensors, specialized medical devices) that require high-quality visual input for onboard AI/ML processing (object detection, facial recognition, navigation).
  • Solution: The 15x15mm size makes it ideal for these space-constrained platforms. The Sony IMX323 provides excellent image data for algorithms, and the M12 lens allows optimizing the FoV for specific AI tasks. AHD's low latency is crucial for real-time edge processing.
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• Custom Optical Path Integration:
  • Problem: Needing to design a custom optical system with precise control over focal length, depth of field, or distortion for a specialized embedded application (e.g., microscopy, specialized scanning).
  • Solution: The interchangeable M12 lens system is a perfect fit, allowing for rapid prototyping and fine-tuning of the optical path.
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• Robust Data Link for Integrated Systems:
  • Problem: Ensuring a stable and reliable video feed from the camera module to the embedded processor over a potentially custom or noise-prone internal connection.
  • Solution: Custom cable/connector options (Mini 4-pin for board-to-board, BNC for external connections if needed) and the inherent robustness of AHD help maintain signal integrity within complex embedded systems.
  •  
• Low-Power Embedded Vision:
  • Problem: Minimizing power consumption for battery-powered or energy-sensitive embedded devices that require vision.
  • Solution: The AHD interface is generally simpler and can be more power-efficient for video transmission than a full IP stack in certain embedded contexts.

Special Demands Met:

• Ultimate Miniaturization: Core to many cutting-edge embedded vision designs.
• Developer Flexibility: The combination of sensor performance, M12 lens, and custom connectivity provides unparalleled flexibility for embedded system developers to tailor the vision subsystem precisely to their needs.
• Rapid Prototyping: Allows developers to quickly test different optical configurations during the design phase.
• Dedicated Vision Subsystem: Can serve as a self-contained, high-performance visual input unit for highly specialized embedded applications.

 

Technical Specifications

Model No.	AC-501-2MP-J
Sensor	SONY IMX323 CMOS 1/2.9” AHD
Resolution	1920*1080P@25FPS，PAL （NTSC is optional）
Output	AHD, RCA / BNC interface
FOV	90°, Pinhole lens, optional
Focus	Manual
White balance	Auto
Microphone	With Microphone
Dimension	Holder: 15*15mm
Length of cable	20cm~2M, standard 0.5M
Power	12V / 50mA, 12V / 90mA
Material	Plastic camera with metal lens
Temperature	-10~+65℃

 

other EFL Replaceable m12 lens available as following

A1, pinhole m12 lens

EFL 2.1/2.8/3.7/5/6/7/8/10/15/20/22/25/30/35/45/70mm

A2,  Flat normal m12 lens

1.08/1.39/1.44/1.56/1.7/1.8/2.1/2.8/3.6/4/6/8/9.9/12/16/25/50mm 

AHD Technology — Core Advantages

1. Real-Time, Uncompressed Video

“Real-time, uncompressed 1080P video stream with zero latency.”
This ensures accurate tele-operation for robots, drones, and embedded RVI systems.

2. Long-Distance Stable Transmission

“Robust signal transmission up to 500 meters over standard coaxial cable.”
Perfect for energy utilities, substation panel AHD camera setups, and large industrial plants.

3. Strong Anti-Interference Performance

“Excellent anti-interference performance, ensuring a stable image in complex industrial electromagnetic environments.”

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1,How long this camera can work well?

AHD (Analog High Definition) supports 720P/1080P HD video over coaxial cable up to 500meter at most, ideal working distance is 200meter

 

2,Can I customize the lens or cable?

Yes, we support OEM customization for lens, cable length, housing, and connectors. 

as an ODM embedded vision supplier, we offer wide, telephoto, pinhole, and custom lens builds

for your application.

3,How does this compare to USB/IP cameras?
Unlike USB/IP, AHD is a zero latency analog HD camera system,

ensuring instant response and up to 500 m cable runs.

4, What industries typically use these cameras?

Industrial equipment and machines, industrial inspection, automotive, medical devices, commercial security.

5, Q: What types of M12 lenses can I use with this module?
A: It's compatible with a wide range of standard M12 (S-mount) lenses, allowing you to choose different focal lengths (e.g., wide-angle, standard, telephoto), apertures, and IR-cut filter options

6, Q: What is the benefit of the Sony IMX323 sensor?
A: The Sony IMX323 is renowned for its excellent image quality, particularly its low-light sensitivity, wide dynamic range, and accurate colour reproduction, making it a popular choice for surveillance applications.

7, Q: What are the advantages of BNC vs. Mini 4-pin connectors?
A: BNC is a widely used, robust coaxial connector common in traditional CCTV, offering secure connections. Mini 4-pin is much smaller, ideal for compact integrations, providing power, video, and potentially control signals in a single, miniature plug. Your choice depends on space constraints and existing infrastructure.

8, Q: Is this camera weatherproof?
A: The 15x15mm module itself is not weatherproof. For outdoor or harsh environment use, it must be integrated into an appropriate IP-rated and/or ruggedized enclosure.
P.S. we have other bigger size IP67 waterproof AHD camera AC-606

 

Use Scenarios for Novel 15×15mm 2MP AHD Camera Module

1. Industrial Inspection and Monitoring

Use Case: Inspect machinery, pipelines, production lines, or other industrial equipment for wear, damage, or anomalies.

Application: Visual inspections in confined spaces where traditional cameras can't fit, such as pipelines, ducts, or machinery interiors.

Example: Used in robotic arms for automated quality control or inspection in harsh industrial environments.

 

2. Robotics Vision Systems

Use Case: Provide vision capabilities to robots for tasks like object detection, navigation, and inspection.

Application: Embedded in mobile robots, robotic arms, drones, or automated guided vehicles (AGVs) for visual feedback and precise control.

Example: Integrated into warehouse robots for picking, placing, and monitoring tasks.

 

3. Medical Devices & Endoscopes

Use Case: Integrated into medical imaging devices, particularly endoscopes and diagnostic tools.

Application: Used in medical procedures to capture real-time images inside the human body for diagnosis, monitoring, and surgery.

Example: Used in flexible endoscopes for minimally invasive surgeries or internal examinations.

 

4. Automotive Diagnostics and Surveillance

Use Case: Used for vehicle inspection, diagnostics, or driver assistance systems.

Application: Provides video feedback in automotive diagnostic tools or serves as part of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) in vehicles.

Example: Installed in vehicle inspection systems to check engine components or assist with reverse camera systems.

 

5. Engergy Security and Surveillance Systems

Use Case: Integrated into surveillance cameras or security monitoring systems, particularly in tight or discrete areas.

Application: Used for video surveillance in warehouses, factories, parking lots, and other spaces requiring discreet or unobtrusive monitoring.

Example: Installed in covert security cameras for industrial or commercial settings where space is limited.

 

6. Wearable & Handheld Inspection Devices

Use Case: Portable or wearable devices for hands-free inspections.

Application: Integrated into handheld inspection tools or wearable systems for professionals performing on-the-go visual inspections in tight spaces.

Example: Embedded in wearable inspection cameras used by maintenance teams for hands-free operations.

 

Who Benefits Most from Our Custom AHD Camera Module?

• CCTV System Integrators (USA-based): Needing flexible, high-performance AHD camera modules for custom security installations.
• OEMs & Product Developers: Seeking a miniature, high-quality AHD camera with customisable lens and connectivity options for new product lines.
• Industrial Automation Specialists: Designing bespoke vision systems for machinery, robotics, or process control.
• Engineering Consultancies: Requiring tailored camera solutions for unique project challenges and harsh environments (when housed appropriately).
• Advanced DIY & Robotics Enthusiasts: For high-end custom builds that demand specific camera performance and form factor.

 

Customer Feedback & Comments

⭐ “Perfect for Tight-Space Inspections”

“We’ve been using the 15×15mm AHD camera in our pipeline inspection robots. Its compact size allows it to fit into small, confined spaces where traditional cameras can’t go. The 1080P clarity is fantastic, even in dimly lit conditions.”

— Robotics Engineer, USA

 

⭐ “Reliable Performance for Automotive Inspections”

“We integrated the 15×15mm AHD camera into our diagnostic tools for automotive inspections. It’s incredibly compact and fits perfectly into tight engine compartments. The 1080P output allows us to spot even the smallest issues in real-time, reducing diagnostic time by over 25%.”

— Automotive Inspection Technician, UK

 

⭐ “A Powerful Yet Compact Solution for Robotics”

“The camera’s small size and high-definition video quality made it an ideal solution for our robotic arm vision system. We use it for object detection and real-time monitoring in our assembly line robots. The ease of integration and outstanding image clarity helped improve our system's efficiency.”

— Automation Solutions Provider, Japan

 

Why Choose Novel Electronics

• Specialized in custom PCB board level cameras and micro board camera for OEM solutions
• Full OEM/ODM service – lens, housing, cabling, firmware tuning
• Proven as an ODM embedded vision supplier for EU/US industrial clients
• High reliability with zero latency analog HD camera performance