What Computar is known for
Computar is the lens brand from the CBC Group with a multi-decade history in surveillance and industrial optics. The company manufactures a wide range of imaging optics — from compact M12 board lenses to high-resolution C/CS-mount and 1.1" machine-vision lenses, plus telecentric, SWIR and thermal designs. Computar has evolved its product lines alongside sensor resolution, offering optics rated for megapixel, 4K and higher applications used across security, automation and OEM markets.
Main product families and technologies
- Board lenses (M12) — compact fixed and varifocal optics for embedded cameras and modules.
- Megapixel monofocal and varifocal — lenses rated for 2MP, 3MP, 5MP, 8MP/4K and beyond for surveillance and general imaging.
- Motorized and manual zooms — DC, stepping motors and preset-capable zooms for PTZ and long-range surveillance.
- Machine vision (FA) lenses — C/CS and larger formats, high-resolution, low-distortion optics for inspection and robotics.
- Telecentric and specialty optics — telecentric measurement lenses, SWIR/ViSWIR, ZnS thermal optics and fisheye board lenses.
Common commercial and industrial applications
Computar lenses are commonly used in security/surveillance, factory automation, intelligent transportation systems, OEM camera modules and specialized scientific or defense imaging where resolution, spectral performance and mechanical compatibility are critical.
How to read Computar model names and identify the right replacement
- Suffixes & series — look for markers such as "-MP", "-MPY" or family names that indicate megapixel or application-tuned optics.
- Mount & format — confirm C-mount vs CS-mount vs M12 and stated sensor format (1/2", 2/3", 1.1" etc.).
- Iris & control — identify Manual Iris, DC Auto Iris, Stepping Motor Iris, P-Iris or Motorized Zoom in the model description.
- Spectral notes — "-IR", SWIR or thermal indicators show spectral suitability and coatings.
- Optical specs — verify focal length, maximum aperture and the listed resolution rating (MP). Flange focal distance and mechanical drawings must match the camera for proper fit.
Practical procurement and sourcing tips for buyers on Safsale
- Compare the complete model string including suffixes and confirm mount/flange dimensions.
- Download and review datasheets and catalogs on product pages to check MTF, FOV tables and mechanical drawings.
- Use Safsale filters for mount, focal length and resolution families to narrow hundreds of Computar models.
- Consult Q&A and reviews for real-world compatibility notes; include full model number, mount and sensor format when requesting quotes.
How Safsale supports identification and sourcing
Safsale product pages provide images, technical PDFs, spec tables and Q&A to help procurement teams verify compatibility. For complex replacements, provide camera model, sensor size, desired field-of-view and working distance to get accurate recommendations. Product availability on listings should be confirmed at time of purchase.
Summary: Computar offers a comprehensive lens portfolio for security, machine vision and OEM use. Careful matching of mount, sensor format, iris/control and spectral band — backed by datasheets and mechanical drawings — will ensure correct replacements and minimize integration risk.