See Colour as Data. Not Approximation.
JAI Apex Series – AP-5100T
The JAI Apex Series transforms colour imaging from interpolation-based estimation into deterministic, spectrally separated data acquisition. Built on a 3-CMOS prism architecture and powered by Sony’s latest Pregius S BSI sensors, Apex delivers true per-pixel RGB values with measurable spectral integrity.
In next-generation inspection systems, colour is no longer aesthetic information. It is a measurable parameter that directly impacts classification reliability, yield stability, and process control.
Stop estimating. Start measuring.
Bayer-based cameras reconstruct missing colour channels through de-mosaicking. That process introduces spectral overlap, interpolation artifacts, and uncertainty — particularly visible in saturated tones, fine structures, and high-dynamic scenes.
Apex captures colours directly.
The JAI Apex Series uses a precision-engineered dichroic RGB prism to separate incoming light across three dedicated CMOS sensors. Each sensor captures its channel without shared pixels or interpolation, delivering exceptional colour accuracy.
The result:
- Higher colour accuracy in CIE L*a*b* space
- Improved spatial fidelity at edges and microstructures
- Stable discrimination of subtle hue and intensity deviations
- Predictable behaviour under mixed illumination
Transforming colour from a visual attribute into a controlled inspection variable
Control the spectrum. Control the outcome.
Minimal colour crosstalk and superior light transmittance
Precision-engineered hard dichroic prism filters deliver steep spectral separation and superior light transmittance, producing truer, more saturated colours and revealing the finest visual differences, even in high-speed or low-light applications.
Independent channel exposure control
White balance is achieved by shutter timing per R/G/B channel, not by gain amplification. Noise remains at the sensor floor.
Lateral Chromatic Aberration Correction
In-camera compensation reduces lens-induced dispersion errors, improving edge alignment across channels and extending usable optics range.
Xscale sub-pixel scaling
Floating-point scaling enables fine adjustment of effective resolution and sensitivity without mechanical reconfiguration.
Multi-ROI and sequencer functionality
Multiple exposure strategies and inspection zones can be executed within a single acquisition cycle, ideal for high-contrast or multi-material scenes.
On-board colour space conversion
Direct output in HSI, CIE XYZ, sRGB, Adobe RGB, or custom matrices reduces host-side computation and simplifies calibrated workflows.
Engineer certainty into every pixel.
Specifications
Apex provides system-level advantages unavailable in single-sensor colour cameras. Backside illumination enhances quantum efficiency while maintaining compact optical format and high-speed readout performance. It advances the platform with Sony’s 4th-generation Pregius S IMX548 BSI sensors, delivering:
- 3 × 5.1 MP (2472 × 2064 per channel)
- 2.74 µm pixel pitch
- Up to 75 fps
- 5GigE Vision, CameraLink, and CoaXPress interfaces
- 24-bit and 30-bit RGB output
Engineered for integration into high-speed, automated production systems
- 3G vibration resistance
- 10G shock tolerance
- Wide operating temperature range
- Compact 54 × 54 × 74 mm housing
- Full GenICam compliance
When colour determines yield, precision becomes strategy.
Apex is deployed where classification tolerance is narrow and inspection reliability defines profitability. In each environment, precise spectral separation translates into consistent inspection decisions and reduced uncertainty in automated processes.
- Food grading and material differentiation
- Automotive surface and trim validation
- MLCC verification and micro-assembly control
- PCB and semiconductor inspection
- Print inspection and colour patch validation
- Pharmaceutical tablet coating analysis
Seeing the possibilities with measurable colour integrity.
Benefit from our expertise
Turn our industry expertise and comprehensive services into your competitive advantage. Our experts will be happy to show you the potential for your company and work with you to realise tailor-made solutions to suit your requirements. We look forward to hearing from you and will get back to you promptly.
FAQ
When does a prism camera make sense over a Bayer camera?
When colour accuracy is a functional requirement, not just a preference. If incorrect colour data causes inspection errors or missed defects — in pharmaceutical sorting, electronics classification, or print verification, for example — a prism-based approach removes the uncertainty introduced by interpolation.
Which model should we choose — AP-1600T, AP-3200T, or AP-5100T?
Resolution and interface requirements determine the right starting point. The AP-5100T adds Lateral Chromatic Aberration Correction and Xscale scaling, which is relevant when optical precision or field-of-view flexibility is a factor. Our technical team can support model selection based on your specific application parameters.
Is the Apex Series suitable for NIR or multispectral imaging?
Yes, via JAI’s Flex-Eye concept. Custom prism configurations are available with extended waveband options including R-NIR, enabling simultaneous visible and near-infrared imaging for applications such as organic material differentiation in food processing or pharmaceutical inspection.
What software is compatible with the Apex Series?
All Apex models are fully GenICam-compliant and work with Common Vision Blox (CVB), Sapera LT, and most standard machine vision SDKs. No proprietary driver stack is required.
Can STEMMER IMAGING support an application feasibility assessment?
Yes. Through our Engineering Services, we offer feasibility testing and technical consultation to evaluate whether the Apex Series is suited to your inspection requirements. Contact your local STEMMER IMAGING team to discuss your application.