C-Mount Lenses
for Machine Vision Cameras & Systems

JADE 2.8/50 mm C-Mount lens


Overview of
C-Mount lenses

Benefits of Using our C-Mount Lenses


Discover durable Schneider-Kreuznach C-Mount lenses for precise machine vision: compact, robust, ideal for 3D measurement & inspection.

Schneider-Kreuznach stands out as a trusted provider of c-mount lenses, known for both quality and versatility. By combining a robust lens mount with top-tier optical components, these c-mount lenses deliver exceptional clarity and consistency. Whether you need a stabilized lens for delicate operations or a motorized option for remote adjustments, Schneider-Kreuznach’s lineup covers a broad range of industrial needs.

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Our C-Mount Lens Series

CITRINE C-Mount lenses



These high resolution 2/3” C-Mount lenses are compact and robust and therefore ideal for demanding imaging applications even in harsh environment. With the special broadband AR coating they can be used in the visible 400 to 700 nm and in the NIR 700 to 1000 nm range. The lenses are also available in a ruggedized, stabilized and motorized version.

Lens Focal length Aperture range Max. sensor size Mount Special feature Price (€/$) Datasheet

TURQUOISE C-Mount lenses



These high resolution 1” C-Mount lenses are compact and robust and therefore ideal for demanding imaging applications even in harsh environment. With the special broadband AR coating they can be used either in the visible 400 to 700 nm or in the NIR 700 to 1000 nm range. The lenses are also available in a ruggedized and motorized version.

Lens Focal length Aperture range Max. sensor size Mount Special feature Price (€/$) Datasheet

AQUAMARINE C-Mount lenses



These high resolution 1.3” C-Mount / TFL-Mount lenses are compact and robust and therefore ideal for demanding imaging applications even in harsh environment. With the special broadband AR coating it can be used either in the visible 400 to 700 nm or in the NIR 700 to 1000 nm range. The lens is also available in a ruggedized and motorized version.

Lens Focal length Aperture range Max. sensor size Mount Special feature Price (€/$) Datasheet

JADE C-Mount lenses



JADE lenses are perfectly adapted to technical requirements with a maximum sensor size of 1.2" (19.3 mm) and an impressive resolution of up to 2.4µ pixel. The compact lenses feature a low chief ray angle, making them ideal for use with all generations of SONY Pregius™ sensors. As C-mount lenses, they also offer flexibility and versatility.

Lens Focal length Aperture range Max. sensor size Mount Special feature Price (€/$) Datasheet

TOURMALINE C-Mount lenses



With a maximum sensor size of 1.3" (24 mm) and a resolution of up to 2.4µ pixel size, the TOURMALINE lenses offer impressive performance. The flat main beam angle makes them suitable for all SONY Pregius™ generations.

Lens Focal length Aperture range Max. sensor size Mount Special feature Price (€/$) Datasheet

TOPAZ C-Mount lenses



Optimized for different working distances these compact and robust 1.1” / 1.2" C-Mount lenses are the perfect choice for demanding short and long distance applications even in harsh environment.

Lens Focal length Aperture range Max. sensor size Mount Special feature Price (€/$) Datasheet

 

Specialized Lens Options: Ruggedized, Stabilized & Motorized


The true value of c-mount lenses becomes apparent in harsh or highly active conditions. Schneider-Kreuznach’s range includes ruggedized, stabilized, and motorized options that maintain superior imaging, even in challenging scenarios. Whether you are using a machine vision lens for high-speed robotics or relying on a c-mount lens adapter to fit your specialized camera, the consistent clarity provided by c-mount lenses is vital. 

We offer multiple c-mount lens versions to address different industry requirements. These can range from basic models for standard imaging tasks to advanced motorized types for remote focusing. Each version leverages the robust c-mount thread for secure installation. Regardless of your operational demands, there is likely a c-mount lens designed to fit seamlessly into your system.

Ruggedized c-mount lenses: for shock and vibration resistance

Engineered for maximum durability: These C-Mount lenses feature a robust mechanical design to withstand intense shock and vibration in demanding industrial environments.

CITRINE Lens F1.8 4.8mm C-Mount Ruggedized

CITRINE F1.8/4.8 mm Ruggedized C-Mount Lens

Stabilized c-mount lenses: no image shift

Uncompromising precision: These stabilized C-Mount lenses maintain a consistent optical axis and eliminate pixel shift, making them ideal for measurement and calibration.

CITRINE Lens F1.4 12 mm C-Mount Stabilized
 

CITRINE F1.4/12 mm Stabilized C-Mount Lens

The benefits of using a stabilized C-Mount lens

This Diagram comparing image shift between a standard lens and a Schneider-Kreuznach stabilized lens

Stabilized lenses diagram

Motorized c-mount lenses: Allows automated Aperture control

 

C-Mount lenses for Demanding Environments


Schneider-Kreuznach C-Mount lenses ensure seamless compatibility with diverse camera systems, delivering crisp, high-quality images for accurate results. Their sturdy construction provides dependable, long-term reliability, making them the ideal solution for industrial robots and automated production lines seeking to enhance efficiency, optimize processes, and uphold rigorous quality standards.

 

Pixel-Sensor-Size Diagram for C-Mount Lenses

Pixel-Sensor-Size Diagram for COMPACT LENSES

 

 

Technical Guide: How to Focus and Install C-Mount Lenses

To achieve the highest image quality in machine vision applications, simply choosing the right lens is only the first step. Proper installation and precise focus adjustment are critical for reliable automated inspection and data accuracy. Unlike consumer lenses, professional C-mount lenses are designed for high-vibration environments and long-term stability, featuring specialized locking mechanisms to maintain focus under industrial conditions.

To help you get the most out of your optical setup, our Product Manager Steffen Mahler has created a detailed technical resource. Using the high-performance CITRINE F1.4/23mm C-mount lens as a primary example, he demonstrates the correct handling of the fine-pitch thread and the focus-locking collar to ensure your system operates with maximum precision.
 

Explore the C-Mount Lens Focusing Guide & Video Tutorial

What You Will Learn in This Tutorial

  • Step-by-step focus adjustment for C-mount lenses
  • Correct use of the locking collar and 2mm hex screw to prevent focus drift
  • Precise alignment techniques for maximum sharpness in machine vision
  • Proper mounting procedures to ensure a secure lens-to-camera fit
Schneider-Kreuznach C-Mount lens



Typical Applications for C-Mount lenses


In machine vision systems, c-mount lenses excel at delivering sharp, detailed images. Combined with a c-mount camera, they help detect subtle defects or variations in manufacturing, thereby improving product quality. Because these lenses maintain focus under rigorous conditions, they are a go-to choice in industrial settings. A well-fitted c-mount lens adapter can also broaden compatibility, allowing you to use different camera types without sacrificing imaging quality.

Applications in Industry & Research

C-mount lenses power a wide array of industrial tasks. In manufacturing, they integrate with camera systems for product inspection, identifying minute defects before items leave the production line. In robotics, they guide automated arms with precision, ensuring each movement aligns perfectly with its target. Research laboratories also rely on c-mount lenses to capture detailed observations in limited spaces. This adaptability makes c-mount camera setups indispensable wherever meticulous imaging is vital.
 

Production line with robots uses C-Mount lenses

Industrial robots on a production line, optimized for image processing with C-Mount lenses.

 

 



Compact and Durable Design for Industrial Integration


Industrial environments often involve vibrations, temperature swings, and restricted space. C-mount lenses are engineered to meet these challenges while maintaining top-notch optical performance. Their compact form is particularly useful when machinery or other components limit the available area. Thanks to a secure lens mount, these lenses stay firmly in place, reducing the risk of misalignment during fast-paced operations. In combination with a c-mount camera, they deliver clear and consistent results, essential for automated processes and quality checks.

Why Durability Matters in Machine Vision:

  • Minimizes downtime due to equipment failure 
  • Ensures stable image capture for critical inspections 
  • Supports efficient workflows in demanding production lines
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Production of a C-mount lens at the Schneider-Kreuznach plant in Germany.


FAQs on C-Mount Lenses

What are C-Mount lenses?

C-Mount lenses attach to cameras using a c-mount thread and are known for their balance of high optical performance and compact design. These lenses are widely used in machine vision, where space can be limited but image accuracy is essential. By offering a sturdy lens mount, a typical c-mount lens remains securely in place, even in industrial applications with constant movement. Many professionals value c-mount lenses for their precision and reliability, particularly in environments that require consistent, high-quality imaging.

Key Advantages at a Glance:

  • Compact dimensions suitable for tight spaces
  • Robust design for reliable performance
  • Ideal for machine vision tasks requiring detailed inspection

What types of applications are best suited for C-Mount lenses?

C-Mount lenses are ideal for:

  • 3D measurement and spatial analysis,
  • Quality inspection in manufacturing lines,
  • Traffic monitoring and surveillance,
  • Robotic vision systems in automation,
  • Scientific research where precise, compact imaging solutions are needed

Can the C-Mount lenses be customized?

Yes, Schneider-Kreuznach offers customization options to meet specific machine vision needs, including variations in lens elements, mounts, and other specialized features to ensure optimal performance for your application.

How do Schneider-Kreuznach C-Mount lenses handle environmental challenges in industrial settings?

These lenses are engineered to withstand industrial stressors like vibration, temperature changes, and dust. With options for ruggedized models, Schneider-Kreuznach C-Mount lenses are reliable for long-term use in harsh environments, ensuring consistent image quality and precision.

 

Related industrial lens categories


Explore our wide range of industrial lenses designed for a variety of applications and find the perfect solution for your imaging needs. 

 

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