The quality of an image begins not just from the sensor but pixel by pixel. Various external factors, such as lighting conditions, optical elements, temperature variations, and more significantly, ultra-high-resolution sensors (8 MP or higher), can greatly influence image clarity.

However, these effects are correctable through calibration to eliminate unwanted artifacts in images. Adimec enables this process via its Active Sensor Control (ASC) technology, allowing field-based adjustments that account for all disturbances—including those arising from system configurations or changes over time.

Understanding ASC: Automated Pixel Correction

ASC is an automated method designed to address several image degradations:

  • Fixed pattern noise (FPN): A recurring pattern of brighter and dimmer pixels seen under consistent lighting.
  • Photo response non-uniformity (PRNU): Variations in pixel sensitivity that affect output signal consistency.
  • Shading: Non-uniform brightness across an image due to illumination or optical inconsistencies.

ASC operates by correcting each pixel individually rather than adjusting overall gain or offset values, making it particularly effective for high-resolution systems where precision matters greatly.

How ASC Works

Consider two example pixels in Figure 1. Assuming linear behavior between them exists:

  • Their responses differ not only at zero exposure (offset) but also with respect to light intensity (gain).
  • The black level—the average unexposed pixel response—represents baseline adjustment needed before imaging begins.

A change in this baseline would visibly shift all pixels uniformly brighter or darker, which ASC helps correct automatically.

Figure 1: Uncorrected Pixel Responses

ASC extends beyond basic factory-level adjustments by compensating for setup-specific issues like uneven lighting sources or optical imperfections throughout the capture chain. This ensures consistent image quality regardless of environmental changes post-deployment.

Implementing ASC in Your System

To experience these benefits firsthand, integrate an Adimec camera into your application and perform a dark calibration immediately after installation:

  1. Capture an image under low-light conditions.
  2. Use the dedicated button or command to execute ASC operations—this may save results directly to memory for later use during startup without extra processing time.

Visualizing ASC Impact

Figure 2a: Before Applying ASC (Gain Setting) Figure 2b: After Active Sensor Control Application

These figures demonstrate significant improvements in image uniformity following correction. Multiple calibration profiles can be stored within the camera’s non-volatile memory, enabling adaptation to different lenses or configurations during operation without re-calibration.

Expanding Correction Beyond Dark Images

For even greater control over shading and other illumination-dependent artifacts, consider applying ASC algorithms directly onto lit images. This approach allows for more comprehensive correction tailored specifically to varying light conditions in real-world scenarios.

If you’re looking to enhance your machine vision system’s capabilities with advanced sensor technology like Active Sensor Control, reach out today for a free evaluation kit or explore our related resources:

Last Updated: 2025-09-04 19:38:25