Phantom C-Series High-Speed Cameras Set a New Standard for Automotive Crash and Safety Imaging

Wayne, N.J., March 26, 2026 Phantom High-Speed announces the latest product line for advanced high-speed imaging. The C-Series, a family of back-side illuminated (BSI) high-speed cameras and junction box, is designed for automotive crash and safety imaging. The lineup includes the 4-megapixel (Mpx) C540J and 8-Mpx C980J cameras, paired with the JB3 Junction Box, which supports up to eight synchronized cameras per unit. Together, they deliver clean, high resolution crash data in a lightweight, compact form factor, combining increased durability and advanced sensor technology in a small, ruggedized platform designed to meet the demands of global crash testing facilities.

Exceptional Image Quality

The C540J and C980J feature an ultra-low-noise sensor optimized for the high-impact, low-light conditions common in automotive crash test environments. Both cameras deliver artifact-free, pixel-level clarity with no visible banding, ghosting or sensor structure, even when exposed to intense light sources or when using increased gain.

Available in 4- and 8-Mpx (UHD/4K-class) resolutions, the sensors support reliable deformation and motion measurements. Further, the C540J utilizes a 1-inch sensor format, which opens up more cost-effective c-mount lens options and simplifies sourcing compared to larger c-mount lens formats.

Built to Survive Impact

Both cameras and the JB3 carry a 170G shock rating, qualifying them for repeated high-severity crash and sled events without performance degradation. The C540J and C980J have a small, rounded form factor that simplifies mounting in tight in-vehicle spaces, including footwells, dashboards and dummy surrounds. While optimized for automotive safety, the ruggedized design is also ideal for rail, commercial vehicles and specialty transport equipment testing.

Greater System Flexibility and Scalability

The JB3 expands channel capacity from six to eight cameras per junction box, enabling broader scene coverage with fewer boxes and less wiring complexity. It is backward compatible with existing JB2 infrastructure, allowing labs to upgrade gradually rather than undertake a full system replacement. Cable replacement costs are roughly three times lower compared to previous-generation systems, and field-replaceable cable planning improves long-term serviceability.

Ready for Advanced Workflows

The C-Series supports advanced crash lab methodologies, including stereo-rig configurations and 3D digital image correlation (DIC) workflows. The C540J includes an internal battery for untethered onboard capture during vehicle crashes. Both cameras integrate with Phantom Camera Control (PCC) software for streamlined framing, synchronization and data management of multi camera systems. A LEMO cable adapter supports seamless compatibility with European automotive OEM platforms and test standards.

Specifications of the C-Series

Phantom C540J: 4-Mpx, 1-inch sensor format

Phantom C980J: 8-Mpx UHD/4K-class resolution

Both cameras feature BSI sensors with a noise rating below 4.4 e- (EMVA 1288)

JB3 Junction Box supports up to eight synchronized C-Series cameras per unit

170G shock-rated (cameras and JB3) for repeated crash cycle durability

Compact, rounded camera form factor for flexible in-vehicle and sled mounting

Backward compatible with JB2 systems and existing Phantom camera infrastructure

C540J internal battery for untethered onboard capture

Roughly 3x lower cable replacement cost versus previous generation

LEMO adapter for support of automotive OEM integration

Stereo-rig and 3D DIC workflow ready

To learn more, Visit Phantom C-Series Camera

About Phantom High-Speed

Phantom High-Speed is a leading manufacturer of high-speed digital imaging systems that are indispensable across a wide variety of applications, including defense, automotive, engineering, science, medical research, industrial manufacturing, packaging, machine vision, sports broadcast, TV production, and digital cinematography.

The Wayne, N.J.-based company designs and manufactures the most comprehensive range of digital high-speed cameras available today, all of which deliver unsurpassed image resolution, acquisition speed, image quality, and performance in light-starved conditions.

Over the course of its 75-plus year history, Phantom has earned numerous awards in recognition of its innovations in high-speed digital camera technology and sensor design, including a technical Emmy and an Academy Award .

Phantom digital high-speed cameras add a new dimension to the sense of sight, allowing the user to see details of an event when it's too fast to see, and too important not to . For additional information regarding Phantom High-Speed, please visit www.phantomhighspeed.com.

Phantom High-Speed is a business of AMETEK Inc., a leading global provider of industrial technology solutions serving a diverse set of attractive niche markets with annual sales over $7.0 billion.

LINK:	https://www.phantomhighspeed.com/news/newsarticles/2026/march/phantom-...
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