Bandwidth: An Endless Story with GigE Vision
March 13, 2017 – Technology
Bandwidth remains a constant challenge in the context of GigE Vision. Intel recently released an updated network driver that enables network port teaming on Windows 10, offering enhanced performance for data-intensive applications.
Pushing Data Rate Limits with Dual GigE
As imaging sensors grow faster and larger, manufacturers are striving to achieve higher data rates to handle increased throughput efficiently. The standard approach involves dual GigE Vision, which combines two network ports into a single team. This not only doubles the data transfer rate but also preserves the unique advantages of GigE Vision—such as extended cable lengths and flexible routing—which remain unmatched by other interfaces.
Ethernet Teaming Across Operating Systems
The concept of “ethernet teaming” aggregates multiple network ports, minimizing overhead while maximizing bandwidth. Cameras equipped with dual GigE Vision ports can leverage this to deliver data at nearly double the speed.
For instance, high-resolution EVO industrial cameras and HR series models (e.g., HR29) benefit significantly from increased bandwidth, enabling real-time processing in demanding applications.
Unlike proprietary solutions, ethernet teaming operates at the OS level and is compatible with major platforms like Linux, macOS, and Windows—requiring no special software for configuration.
A Note on Windows 10 Support
Although Microsoft has not officially supported Dual GigE Vision since its latest Windows 10 release, Intel’s new driver (released in February) demonstrates robust functionality. Tests conducted with SVS-Vistek cameras such as the HR16070 revealed a maximum bandwidth of 190MB/s—though system limitations may reduce this figure further.
Compatibility Caveats
The updated driver supports only specific network cards, including Intel i210 and i350 models. Older devices like the Intel Pro 100 GT T2 or Gigabit ET Quad Port T4 are incompatible, as installation attempts will fail due to missing support.
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Last Updated: 2025-09-05 03:45:47
