Stereo Camera with 6-Axis IMU Sync | USB 3.0 Global Shutter Camera Module

▐ Products Description

Stereo Imaging with Hardware Synchronization and Motion Data

This USB 3.0 stereo camera module combines two RGB imaging channels with a six-axis IMU for applications that need synchronized image capture and motion measurements. The camera uses AR0234 CMOS global-shutter sensors, with a 1920 × 1200 effective resolution per sensor. In the configured stereo output, the two image streams can be synchronized at up to 60 fps, with a specified inter-camera synchronization error below 1 μs.

Image timing is only part of the system. For visual-inertial odometry, robotics, and 3D perception, the relationship between each exposure and the IMU data also matters. The system is specified for synchronization error below 10 μs between the six-axis IMU data and exposure timestamps. Multi-camera USB synchronization with an error below 100 μs is also specified for supported configurations. These figures describe different synchronization relationships; the applicable measurement method and operating conditions should be confirmed for the final setup.

The IMU uses the TDK ICM-42688-P. Lens options cover stated fields of view from 100° to 200°, with fixed focus. Lens selection affects stereo overlap, distortion, and the usable working area, so the required field of view and camera baseline should be reviewed together when preparing a stereo system. The USB 3.0 interface and UVC compatibility provide a starting point for host integration, while timestamp handling, multi-camera operation, and software support depend on the target platform and final configuration.

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▐ Core Features

Stereo Camera Sync Error Below 1 μs

6-Axis IMU & Exposure Sync Below 10 μs

Multi-USB Camera Sync Below 100 μs

AR0234 Global Shutter & USB 3.0

▐ Technical Specification

Item	Specification
Model	USB 3.0 Global Shutter Stereo Camera Module with 6-Axis IMU
Image Sensor	AR0234 CMOS Global Shutter
Effective Resolution	1920 × 1200 pixels per sensor
Pixel Size	3.0 μm × 3.0 μm
Configured Stereo Output	4000 × 1200 @ 60 fps (MJPEG); 4000 × 1200 @ 30 fps (YUY2)
Video Output Format	MJPEG / YUY2
Stereo Synchronization	Specified inter-camera synchronization error below 1 μs
IMU	TDK ICM-42688-P, 6-axis
IMU & Exposure Timestamp Synchronization	Specified synchronization error below 10 μs
Multi-Camera Synchronization	Specified synchronization error below 100 μs for supported multi-USB-camera configurations
Lens Format	1/2.6-inch format
Field of View	100° / 130° / 160° / 175° / 195° / 200°
Focus	Fixed Focus
Center Resolution	800 LW/PH
Signal-to-Noise Ratio	37 dB
Dynamic Range	70 dB
Sensitivity	1.4 V/lux·s @ 550 nm
Automatic Controls	AEC / AWB / AGC supported
Host Interface	USB 3.0 High-Speed
USB Cable	1 m standard; 2 m / 3 m / 5 m optional
Module Dimensions	90 × 24.5 × 31 mm
Operating Temperature	0°C to +60°C
Storage Temperature	-40°C to +80°C
OS Compatibility	Windows 10 / Windows 11 / Linux with UVC / macOS X 10.4.8 or later / Android 4.0 or above with UVC

▐ Sensor Introduction

The AR0234 is the image sensor specified for this stereo module. Its global-shutter architecture captures the image across the frame without the rolling-shutter timing differences that can complicate measurements of fast-moving objects. This is relevant to mobile robots, machine vision, and stereo depth systems, where motion between image rows can affect feature matching and geometric calculations.

▐ Product Advantages

Matched Timing Between Left and Right Images

The specified stereo synchronization error is below 1 μs. For stereo matching, the timing relationship between the two views matters when the cameras observe a moving object or the platform itself is moving. The achieved result should be assessed using the final camera configuration and the intended synchronization test method.

Exposure Timing Related to IMU Measurements

The six-axis ICM-42688-P provides motion data alongside camera images. A specified synchronization error below 10 μs between IMU data and exposure timestamps can be relevant to visual-inertial odometry, motion estimation, and sensor fusion. Software must still interpret timestamps consistently and account for the data format used by the host system.

Coordination Across Multiple USB Cameras

Multi-camera installations may need a common capture timeline rather than independent USB streams. The specified synchronization error is below 100 μs for supported multi-camera configurations. Host-controller bandwidth, USB topology, camera count, and software scheduling should be checked before scaling up a deployment.

Lens Options for Different Stereo Working Areas

Available fields of view range from 100° to 200°. A wider lens can capture more of the surrounding scene, but it also changes distortion and stereo overlap, which affect calibration and depth estimation. The lens should therefore be selected against the required working distance, baseline, and usable image area rather than by field of view alone.

▐ Why Choose Our Stereo Camera Modules

Hardware Selection Based on the Actual Application

Sensor resolution, lens field of view, stereo geometry, and mounting space all affect the final system. Sharing the target working distance, baseline, and host interface early helps establish whether the standard configuration fits the project or requires a mechanical or optical change.

Prototype Evaluation Before Volume Orders

Engineering samples allow customers to check image quality, calibration, timestamp interpretation, cable routing, and USB compatibility on the intended host. These checks are particularly important when two image streams and IMU data must be processed together.

Manufacturing and Quality Control

For repeat orders, mechanical alignment, focus, image output, and interface operation need to remain consistent. Inspection requirements can be discussed during project definition, including which imaging and synchronization checks are necessary for the finished module.

▐ Application

Mobile Robots

Visual-Inertial Measurement

Stereo Vision

Multi-Camera Systems

▐ Certifications & Quality Assurance

ISO 9001

ISO 45001

ISO 14001

EMC Test

CE Certified

▐ Customization Service

Stereo camera projects often have requirements that go beyond resolution and frame rate. Lens field of view, camera baseline, mounting dimensions, cable length, USB topology, timestamp format, and host software all influence the integration work. For an OEM project, please specify the target platform, required working distance, available mounting space, number of cameras, and how image and IMU timestamps will be consumed by the application. Any changes to the standard hardware or synchronization behavior should be reviewed against the final configuration.

Lens & Optics

Sensor

Mechanical Design

Connector & I/O

▐ FAQ

Q1: What does the stereo synchronization error below 1 μs mean?

It refers to the specified timing difference between the two camera channels. Closely matched capture timing helps stereo algorithms compare corresponding scene points when objects or the camera platform are moving. The exact test method and measurement conditions should be confirmed for the final configuration.

Q2: How are the IMU data and exposure timestamps synchronized?

The module uses a TDK ICM-42688-P six-axis IMU, and the specified synchronization error between IMU data and exposure timestamps is below 10 μs. For integration, confirm the timestamp reference, data format, and host-side handling required by your visual-inertial or sensor-fusion software.

Q3: Can multiple USB cameras run with synchronization below 100 μs?

A synchronization error below 100 μs is specified for supported multi-USB-camera configurations. The achievable result depends on the selected configuration and should be evaluated with the intended camera count, USB host controllers, hub arrangement, and application software.

Q4: What frame rate and resolution are available in stereo mode?

The specified sensors provide 1920 × 1200 effective pixels per camera. The configured combined output is listed as 4000 × 1200 at 60 fps in MJPEG and 4000 × 1200 at 30 fps in YUY2. Confirm the exact output dimensions, cropping or packing format, and supported frame rates for the required operating mode before integration.

Q5: Which details are needed to evaluate the module for an OEM project?

Start with the target operating system and processor, required resolution and frame rate, lens field of view, stereo baseline, working distance, camera count, cable length, and timestamp interface requirements. Also share the expected quantity and any mechanical constraints. These details help determine whether the standard module is suitable and which items need to be verified with engineering samples.

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