Quick Verdict
If you're assembling a compact machine vision identification station and need a mono camera with high resolution and GigE connectivity, the Basler Ace 2 a2A3840-13gmBAS at USD 329.99 is a strong candidate. This 8.3MP camera captures 3840 x 2160 at up to 13 fps using a Sony IMX334 CMOS sensor. It supports PoE or 12-24 VDC power, includes an RJ45 GigE port and an M8 6-pin I/O connector, and uses a C-mount lens interface. For an industrial identification setup, that's a solid set of specs in a 55.5 x 29 x 29 mm body.
Who It Suits
This camera is designed for machine builders and integrators who need reliable imaging without a bulky body. The mono sensor suits inspection tasks where color data isn't necessary, such as barcode or OCR reading, measurement, or pattern recognition. If you already have C-mount lenses and a GigE network, this camera fits into that environment. Its small footprint also helps in space-constrained stations.
What Stands Out
- Resolution and frame rate: 8.3 MP at 13 fps provides sharp stills for identification, with enough speed for moderate production lines.
- Interface flexibility: Power over Ethernet simplifies cabling, and the 12-24 VDC fallback adds deployment options.
- Compact mechanical design: At 55.5 x 29 x 29 mm with a C-mount, it integrates into tight enclosures.
- Monochrome imaging: The Sony IMX334 sensor in mono mode avoids color interpolation artifacts, which can help edge detection.
- Package contents: The camera comes in original protective packaging with a Basler getting started guide. The boxes have handwritten inventory markings and minor storage wear, and the available units are revisions 13 and 14.
Meaningful Trade-Offs
This is a used unit, so you aren't getting a brand-new camera. Two units are available at USD 329.99 each. No lens, cable, or power supply is included, so you'll need to source those separately. The camera uses a C-mount lens interface, which means CS-mount lenses will require an adapter or alternative optics. The 13 fps rate is adequate for many identification tasks but may feel limiting for high-speed inspection lines.
Where This Fits
The Basler Ace 2 a2A3840-13gmBAS offers a strong resolution-to-price point among used industrial cameras. The GigE PoE interface connects easily to standard switches, and the mono sensor aligns with identification workloads. The trade-off is that you handle lens, power, and cabling, and you need to accept the used condition.
Bottom Line
For a machine vision identification project that needs a high-resolution mono camera on GigE, the Basler Ace 2 a2A3840-13gmBAS at USD 329.99 is worth considering. It delivers a clear set of imaging specs in a compact package, and PoE support simplifies installation. Just remember to budget for a C-mount lens and any power or cabling you need. If the used condition is acceptable, this could be a practical pick.
Basler a2A3840-13gmBAS Ace 2 8.3MP 4K 13FPS Mono GIGE POE Machine Vision Camera
Two units are available, each priced at USD 329.99. This camera is a mono area-scan model with a Sony IMX334 progressive-scan CMOS sensor. It offers a maximum resolution of 3840 x 2160 and a frame rate of 13 fps. The body measures 55.5 x 29 x 29 mm and uses a C-mount lens interface. Connectivity is via a GigE RJ45 port, with power options of PoE or 12-24 VDC through an M8 6-pin I/O connector.
A strong point is the combination of 8.3MP resolution and PoE capability in a compact body. For identification tasks, the mono sensor can produce crisp images. The main limitation is that you must supply your own lens and power source. Also, because this is a used unit, the packaging shows minor storage wear, and the revision may be 13 or 14. At USD 329.99, it's a reasonable option if you're comfortable assembling the rest of the imaging chain.
