The rise of CoaXPress as a dominant interface in machine vision stems from its unique combination of high bandwidth capabilities delivered through coaxial cabling. This technology gained traction initially due to transmission improvements allowing speeds up to 25 Gbps over 40 meters or 5 Gbps over greater distances. The evolution continued with simplified integration processes and readily available compliant components, expanding the ecosystem significantly.

Key Technical Elements

IP Core Foundation

CoaXPress functionality relies on intellectual property (IP) cores—pre-designed blocks of logic used in field programmable gate arrays (FPGAs) or application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs). These standardized building blocks accelerate development by providing tested solutions for specific functions, allowing designers to focus on unique aspects rather than reinventing fundamental components.

Performance Specifications

The standard enables high-speed video transmission through coaxial cables with distinct bandwidth characteristics:

  • Downlink transfer rates from 1.25 Gbps to 6.25 Gbps for video streams
  • Upstream communication at a low-speed rate of 20.83 Mbps

Major CoaXPress IP Core Providers

For Frame Grabbers

  • Easii IC: Offers the EASii-IC CoaXPress Device IP enabling high-speed transmission from multiple cameras over coaxial cables. Compatible with Xilinx 7 series and Ultrascale FPGAs.
  • Sensor to Image: Provides FPGA IP cores accelerating machine vision device design (cameras, frame grabbers). Supports Spartan6e and Virtex6 FPGA families with specific cable length capabilities.

For Cameras

  • Kaya Instruments: Delivers versatile CoaXPress solutions including Multi-link high-performance options for demanding applications. Supports various Xilinx FPGAs as well as Altera devices.
  • Demand Creation: An expert in electronic circuit and SoC design offering specialized CoaXPress capabilities.

Ecosystem Expansion

The growing adoption of CoaXPress is further fueled by:

  • Increasing availability of frame grabber providers
  • Multiple IP core suppliers expanding implementation options for system designers
  • Continuous growth in supported devices as provider offerings evolve

To stay current with the expanding ecosystem, direct contact with these providers or checking their most recent documentation remains necessary for complete and updated device compatibility information.

  • The evolution of CoaXPress from a riskier solution to becoming today’s lowest-risk machine vision interface option
  • Perspectives on Microchip Technology’s role in CoaXPress growth across industries and future developments

Last Updated: 2025-09-04 20:53:04