Cameras

Kurokesu offers a range of cameras designed for applications from robotics and scientific imaging to streaming and security. This overview breaks down the camera lineup by interface, form factor, and product family, helping you understand the differences and choose the right model.

Interface

Kurokesu cameras come in two interface types, serving different use cases

USB

UVC compliant cameras that plug into a host via USB port. They are essentially plug-and-play on modern operating systems and appear as standard webcams. The USB models contain an onboard image processor (ISP) that outputs video in common formats (YUY2, MJPEG, or even H.264 on C1, C2 models) . This makes multi-camera setups straightforward, since each unit has a unique serial number and C3 family retains its last-used settings in onboard memory. USB cameras are ideal for general-purpose use or when you want minimal fuss - e.g. attaching to a PC, single-board computer, or even multiple cameras on one machine for streaming or conferencing.

MIPI CSI-2

Mostly board level camera modules that interface through a CSI-2 ribbon cable (22-pin 0.5 mm pitch, 4 data lanes). They feed unprocessed pixel data directly to a host like a Raspberry Pi or NVIDIA Jetson, which then handles image processing. MIPI cameras are favored in embedded vision systems where you want low level sensor access, lower latency, or tight integration with an onboard ISP/SOC. CSI-2 models support external trigger and synchronization signals via a separate connector for precise timing in multi-camera setups. These cameras require appropriate drivers (for example, using Raspberry Pi’s camera stack or custom drivers), but offer flexibility for edge computing and AI applications.

Enclosure

Kurokesu provides most cameras in two form factors: a board-level module or a boxed enclosed camera. Both contain the same sensor and core electronics, but their format and lens mount differ.

Board Level

These are bare PCB modules (the newest C3 boards measure about 26 × 26 mm) designed to be embedded into your equipment. They use an M12 lens mount (also called S-mount) for compact lenses. Board cameras are extremely lightweight, making them suitable for UAVs, handheld devices, head-mounted rigs, or any space/weight constrained setup. Board level models have mounting holes on the PCB for custom attachment. They typically don’t include an IR-cut filter by default - instead, the filter (if needed) is part of the lens or an added lens accessory. Board level cameras can come with different M12 mount heights (standard 9.5mm or extended 14.7mm) to accommodate wide-angle vs. telephoto lenses. For USB board cameras, a small daughter board hosts the USB Type-C connector or a locking JST-GH connector (for embedded use) and interfaces with the sensor board. This modular design keeps the sensor module compact and reduces heat near the sensor.

Boxed

These have the sensor and electronics mounted inside a CNC machined Aluminum enclosure (approximately a 33 × 33 × 24 mm cube). They feature a CS-mount on the front, which is a larger threaded lens mount (1-inch diameter, 32 TPI) that accepts CS or C-mount lenses. (CS-mount is common in industrial cameras, and C-mount lenses can also be used via a 5 mm adapter ring.) Boxed cameras come with a default IR-cut (visible band-pass) filter installed in the optical path, ensuring accurate colors under daylight conditions. The filter can be swapped or removed depending on the model for applications needing full spectrum or NIR imaging. The enclosure adds protection and makes the camera "ready to deploy" - each side of the cube has M3 threaded holes for mounting, and an optional tripod/Arca-Swiss mount plate can be attached to the base. Boxed cameras are ideal for users who want a robust, out-of-the-box solution with standard lens compatibility and easy mounting (for example, mounting as a machine vision camera on a robot, or on a tripod for video production).

Camera Families

The following table summarizes the key differences between Kurokesu camera families (C3, C2, C1 Micro, C1 Pro) to help you decide which suits your needs

CSI2-MIPI

MIPI CSI-2 cameras are board-level modules for direct connection to embedded hosts such as Raspberry Pi and NVIDIA Jetson. They output raw data over a 4-lane CSI-2 interface and are offered with several sensor options, including IMX462 for low light work, AR0234 for global shutter capture, AR0822 for wide dynamic range, IMX283 for 20MP imaging, and IMX477 for 12MP applications. This range is aimed at embedded vision, robotics, and AI systems where low latency, raw sensor access, and compact integration matter more than plug-and-play USB convenience.

C3

C3 is the newest camera family and the main choice for new designs. It combines several sensor options on one platform, including IMX415 for 4K imaging, IMX462 for low light and near infrared work, and AR0234 for global shutter capture, with versions available as boxed CS-mount cameras and compact board level M12/M12L models. Recent additions also introduced locking JST-GL USB connectivity for embedded integration on M12/M12L versions, making C3 suitable for both standard industrial use and more vibration prone embedded systems.

C2

C2 is the proven 1080p USB family built around the Sony IMX290 sensor, with YUY2, MJPEG, and h.264 output over USB and a rugged CS-mount aluminum enclosure. It is a practical choice when you want reliable Full HD imaging, low host CPU load through onboard compression, and straightforward use in streaming, conferencing, robotics, machine vision, and multi-camera systems. Compared with newer C3, C2 is more focused on established 1080p workflows than sensor variety or next-generation platform flexibility.

C1 PRO

C1 PRO is the earlier IMX290-based boxed USB family and is best positioned for continuity in existing systems rather than for brand new platform selection. It offers the same core 1080p class, UVC compatibility, h.264/MJPEG/YUY2 output, CS-mount lens support, interchangeable filters, and industrial enclosure, but uses the older C1 platform and Mini USB cabling rather than the newer C2/C3 approach. It still makes sense where customers already designed around its form factor or need related motorized zoom variants based on the same family.

C1 MICRO

C1 MICRO is the smallest self contained USB camera family in the lineup, built for weight and size critical applications. It uses the AR0330 sensor, supports YUY2, MJPEG, and h.264 output at up to 1920×1080 at 30 fps, and comes in a compact M12 form with two mount height options for different lens types. This makes it a good fit for embedded devices, wearable systems, UAVs, compact inspection tools, and other projects where a standard boxed camera would be too large.