Machine vision or MV is the type of computer vision made available to the manufacturing industry. Computer vision is different than machine vision in that is focuses on machine based images however machine vision focuses on input/output digital devices as well as computer networks to control certain types of equipment like a robotic arm or other similar device.

Machine vision is simply a field all its own that includes engineering topics such as optics, mechanical engineering, computer science, and also industrial automation. The way machine vision is so popular is because it frequently uses an industrial camera to inspect goods like pharmaceuticals, automobiles, semiconductor chips, and food. A firewire camera, smart camera, digital camera, or other type of image processing to inspect workmanship of different products.

Machine vision systems have very specific jobs to perform. For example, machine vision programs are programmed to simply count items on a conveyor belt or else read serial numbers. In some instances they may search products for defects along the surface of the product. Manufacturers like machine vision programs that provide visual inspection that works around the clock. This includes machine vision systems that offer high magnification and high speed. Humans used to offer this service but humans typically are more easily distracted and do not do as good a job as machine vision cameras might.