We have started production of our new Basler scout camera generation. The platform concept used on the Basler scout means that more than 28 camera models can be made available with the same form factor, similar interfaces, similar software and drivers, and very attractive pricing. With its especially attractive price positioning and increased performance, the Basler scout series will make digital cameras very attractive for analog users.

We now offer a board level version of our successful A600f camera family. The aim of the board level camera is to be a powerful, cost-effective, plug-and-play solution that targets OEM customers. This goal is especially well met when users combine the camera, the Basler BCAM 1394 Driver, and a standard 1394 PC adapter board. At only 21 grams and with a size smaller than a credit card, this lightweight device is especially appropriate for robotic applications.

Basler's eXcite intelligent camera series now supports release 7.1.1 of HALCON from MVTec Software GmbH, Munich, Germany. The eXcite intelligent camera family merges Basler's superior digital camera technology and a 1.0 GHz Linux PC in one small housing. This single device offers the capability of both capturing and processing images based on your C++ software application.

To recognize our responsibility for the environment and to meet the requirements of our customers and the marketplace, Basler is modifying nearly all of the cameras we produce to be RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances) compliant. During our RoHS compliance assessment, about 4000 different components were identified and checked.

Our recently held distributors meeting in Singapore marked the first time that Basler has sponsored a purely Asian distributors meeting. Participants included 14 guests from six different partner companies in Japan, Korea, China, Australia, India, and Taiwan. One week earlier, we hosted a European distributors meeting.

In a move to complement its existing operating base in Asia, Basler Vision Components has opened a sales office in Yokohama, thereby strengthening its business activities to better serve customers and prospects in Japan. Neopt will remain as our distributor and will continue to service established Japanese business. Mr. Tadao Tamaru will head the sales office.

Our Vision Components team has had some changes in its personnel structure. Our additions in sales and marketing enable us to offer continuously excellent support and cope with the growing demand of digital cameras in our target markets. We hired three new employees in sales for our Asian and US customers.