Cognex DataMan 280 Review: Specs, Price and Applications
Updated: 2 days ago

The Cognex DataMan 280 is a fixed-mount barcode reader, listed from USD 1,160. This review covers its full specifications, design, integration, applications and price, so you can decide whether it fits your automation project.
Quick Verdict
The Cognex DataMan 280 is a compact fixed-mount barcode reader with a 1.6 MP (1440 x 1080) sensor and an acquisition rate of up to 45 frames per second. It reads 1D, 2D and direct part mark codes on parts and labels, which makes it suitable for identifying and tracing components at robot cells, machine tending stations and conveyors. High dynamic range imaging and a high-speed liquid lens with 6.2 mm or 16 mm focal length keep codes readable at changing distances and on reflective surfaces. The IP67 housing measures 75.5 x 42.4 x 23.6 mm with the 6.2 mm lens and weighs 141 g. It runs on 24 V DC or Power over Ethernet and communicates over EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, Modbus TCP, SLMP, CC-Link, TCP/IP and RS-232. It is listed from USD 1,160.
Cognex DataMan 280 at a Glance
Product type: Fixed-mount barcode reader
Price: from USD 1,160
Cognex DataMan 280 Technical Specifications
The table below lists the published specifications of the Cognex DataMan 280.
Specification | Cognex DataMan 280 |
Manufacturer | Cognex |
Model | DataMan 280 |
Product type | Fixed-mount barcode reader |
Interfaces | EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, Modbus TCP, SLMP, CC-Link, TCP/IP, RS-232, SFTP, FTP |
Starting price | From USD 1,160 |
Detailed Technical Data
Fixed-mount barcode reader
1.6 MP (1440 x 1080) sensor, 3.45 µm pixels
Acquisition up to 45 fps
6.2 mm or 16 mm high-speed liquid lens or C-mount
Integrated 4-LED lighting in red, blue, white, IR or UV, or external lighting
HDR imaging
Reads 1D, 2D and direct part mark codes
IP67
75.5 x 42.4 x 23.6 mm (6.2 mm lens) or 90.6 x 42.4 x 23.6 mm (16 mm lens)
141 g or 169 g
24 V DC or PoE, 7.5 W maximum
Operating temperature 0 to 40 °C
Design and Build Quality

The DataMan 280 is a fixed-mount barcode reader made by Cognex. Published build data: IP67.
Integration and Compatibility
The DataMan 280 is connected to the robot or line controller through its published interfaces: EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, Modbus TCP, SLMP, CC-Link, TCP/IP, RS-232, SFTP and FTP. Confirm mechanical and software compatibility with your robot model before ordering.
Cognex DataMan 280 Applications and Use Cases
The Cognex DataMan 280 is a compact fixed-mount barcode reader with a 1.6 MP (1440 x 1080) sensor and an acquisition rate of up to 45 frames per second. It is used in the automotive, electronics, metalworking, plastics, food and beverage, pharmaceuticals and logistics industries.

The right configuration depends on the part, the cycle time and the robot or line it works with, so confirm it with the supplier.
Cognex DataMan 280 Price and Value
The Cognex DataMan 280 is listed from USD 1,160 on All Things Cobots. Mounting kits, cabling, software options and integration affect the final price and are quoted separately. Prices are indicative, are not final and may change.
Pros and Cons
Pros
IP67
Wide choice of communication interfaces
Cons
Compatibility with the robot and controller must be confirmed before ordering
Mounting, cabling and integration are quoted separately
Who Should Buy the Cognex DataMan 280?
The Cognex DataMan 280 fits manufacturers and integrators who need machine vision for inspection, identification or guidance.
See the full Cognex DataMan 280 product listing on All Things Cobots.
Cognex DataMan 280 FAQ
How much does the Cognex DataMan 280 cost?
The Cognex DataMan 280 is listed from USD 1,160 on All Things Cobots. The price is indicative and may change, and it does not include installation or integration.
What is the Cognex DataMan 280?
The Cognex DataMan 280 is a compact fixed-mount barcode reader with a 1.6 MP (1440 x 1080) sensor and an acquisition rate of up to 45 frames per second.
Is the Cognex DataMan 280 compatible with my robot?
Compatibility depends on the robot flange, payload and controller interface. Confirm it with the supplier before ordering.
Which interfaces does the Cognex DataMan 280 support?
Published interfaces are EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, Modbus TCP, SLMP, CC-Link, TCP/IP, RS-232, SFTP and FTP.
Specifications and prices are based on manufacturer and distributor information. Prices are indicative, are not final and may change.





