Basler Stereo Cameras Review: Stereo ace, Stereo visard and Stereo mini Compared

Basler Stereo cameras are a range of 3D cameras for robots and logistics in three lines: Stereo mini, Stereo ace and Stereo visard. Prices depend on model. This review compares the lines and their uses.

Quick Verdict

Basler's stereo range covers three needs. The Stereo mini is small, with baselines of 50 or 95 mm for short to medium distances and a choice of USB 3.0, GigE or GMSL. The Stereo ace has baselines up to 300 mm for longer range and calibrates itself during operation. The Stereo visard computes depth inside the camera and is set up through a web interface, so it needs no vision PC. On top of these, Basler sells software modules that turn a camera into a bin-picking or machine-tending sensor. The overview page gives no resolution, range or protection figures.

Basler Stereo Cameras at a Glance

• Lines: Stereo mini, Stereo ace, Stereo visard

• Baselines: 50 to 300 mm

• Colour and monochrome options on ace and visard

• Onboard processing: Stereo visard

• Software: modules for bin picking, machine tending and order picking

• Price: by model

Basler Stereo Camera Lines Compared

The table below compares the three lines.

Aspect	Stereo mini	Stereo ace	Stereo visard
Baselines	50 and 95 mm	100, 200 and 300 mm	65 and 160 mm
Range	Short to medium	Not stated	Not stated
Interfaces	USB 3.0, GigE or GMSL	Not stated	Not stated
Calibration	Factory-calibrated	Factory plus dynamic self-calibration	Not stated
Processing	On host	With Basler 3D Camera Cube	Onboard
Options	Small robust housing	Colour or monochrome	Colour or monochrome; optional projector
Setup	pylon SDK and GenTL	pylon SDK	Web-based interface

Resolution, depth range, frame rate and protection rating are not stated on the overview page.

Design and Build Quality

A longer baseline, the distance between the two cameras, gives better depth precision at long range, and a shorter one allows close work. The Stereo ace is built from Basler's ace cameras on a rigid bar; the Stereo visard is a single sealed unit.

Software and Integration

Application Software for Robotics

Modules for bin picking, machine tending and order picking are activated on the camera and operated through its standard interface.

Projector and Lighting

An optional projector adds texture to plain surfaces.

Basler Stereo Cameras Uses

Bin Picking and Machine Tending

Locating parts for a robot.

Order Picking

Locating items in totes and on shelves.

Navigation

Depth data for mobile robots in logistics.

Basler Stereo Cameras Price and Value

Prices vary by model and configuration and are available from Basler.

For the company behind the product, read the Basler Company Profile: Business, Products and Leadership.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Three lines for different ranges

• Baselines from 50 to 300 mm

• Onboard processing on the visard

• Ready-made robot software modules

• Self-calibration on the ace

Cons

• Key figures not on the overview page

• Passive stereo needs texture or a projector

• Software modules are additional

Who Should Buy Basler Stereo Cameras?

The range fits integrators who want 3D for robot picking with software from the camera maker.

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Basler Stereo Cameras FAQ

How much do Basler Stereo cameras cost?

Prices vary by model and are available from Basler.

Which Basler Stereo camera lines are there?

Stereo mini, Stereo ace and Stereo visard.

What baselines does the Basler Stereo ace have?

100, 200 and 300 mm.

What baselines does the Basler Stereo mini have?

50 and 95 mm.

Which Basler Stereo camera processes depth onboard?

The Stereo visard.

What interfaces does the Basler Stereo mini have?

USB 3.0, GigE or GMSL, depending on model.

Does Basler offer bin-picking software?

Yes, as application modules for bin picking, machine tending and order picking.

Can a projector be added to Basler Stereo cameras?

Yes, optionally.

Specifications are based on manufacturer information and may change.