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Last Updated: March 2026
What is the Orbbec Gemini 305? The Orbbec Gemini 305 is a precision-engineered stereo vision camera purpose-built for robotic wrist mounting. At just 68 grams and 42×42×23mm, it delivers sub-millimeter depth accuracy at 15cm across an operating range of 4cm to 100cm. Its passive stereo technology—using only ambient light—eliminates sensor interference while consuming under 2 watts, making it the premier choice for weight-sensitive cobot applications requiring close-range precision.
How Passive Stereo Vision Works
The Gemini 305 employs 18mm baseline passive stereo vision—two synchronized cameras that triangulate depth using ambient light. No IR projectors, no lasers, no structured light patterns. Benefits include:
- No sensor interference - Works alongside other optical sensors without conflict
- Minimal power draw - Under 2W vs 3-5W for active systems
- Silent, invisible operation - No emitted light of any kind
- Lighting independence - Consistent performance in any ambient conditions
Orbbec designed this camera specifically for ultra-close precision tasks where larger, active systems fall short.
Complete Specifications
| Spec | Gemini 305 |
|---|---|
| Depth Method | Passive Stereo Vision |
| Baseline | 18 mm |
| Range | 4 cm – 100+ cm |
| Optimal Range | 7 cm – 50 cm |
| Precision | ≤1% at 50cm, sub-mm at 15cm |
| Depth Resolution | 1280×800 @ 30fps |
| Depth FOV | H 88° × V 65° × D 98° |
| Color Resolution | 1280×800 @ 60fps |
| Color FOV | H 94° × V 68° × D 104° |
| Shutter | Global Shutter |
| Latency | ~60 ms |
| Size | 42 × 42 × 23 mm |
| Weight | 68 g |
| Connection | USB Type-C (USB 3.0/2.0) |
| Power | DC 5V, 700mA, <2W avg |
| Temperature | -10°C to +45°C |
| Protection | IP54 (dust & splash) |
| Mounting | 1/4-20 UNC, M3 (bottom & back) |
| Sync | Hardware & software |
7 Standout Features
1. Industry-Leading Lightness (68g)
The Gemini 305 is the lightest stereo depth camera available. Mount on Universal Robots, Franka Emika, or custom arms without impacting dynamics.
2. Sub-Millimeter Close-Range Accuracy
Sub-millimeter at 15cm, ≤1% at 50cm. Essential for precision assembly and small-part manipulation.
3. Global Shutter Clarity
Captures entire frames simultaneously—eliminates motion blur and rolling shutter artifacts in dynamic applications.
4. Real-Time Response (60ms)
Low-latency streaming enables closed-loop robot control and instant reaction to environmental changes.
5. IP54 Industrial Protection
Dust and splash resistant for factory environments. For harsher conditions, consider Gemini 335L (IP65).
6. Versatile Mounting
Standard 1/4-20 UNC tripod mount plus M3 threads enable integration with existing robot tooling.
7. Synchronized Multi-Camera
Hardware trigger and software sync for multi-viewpoint and 360° coverage applications.
Product Family Comparison
| Camera | Weight | Technology | Range | Ideal Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gemini 305 | 68g | Passive Stereo | 4-100cm | Wrist Mount |
| Gemini 335 | 97g | Active Stereo | 0.1-20m | General Robotics |
| Gemini 335L | 133g | Active Stereo | 0.17-20m | Outdoor/AMR |
| Gemini 2L | 152g | Active IR | 0.2-10m | Navigation |
| Gemini 335Le | 220g | Active Stereo | 0.25-20m | Industrial Outdoor |
| Gemini 345Lg | 220g | Active Stereo | 0.2-20m | Rugged Outdoor |
| Gemini 435Le | >1kg | Active Stereo | Up to 20m+ | Heavy Industry |
Primary Use Cases
Collaborative Robot Integration
The Gemini 305 integrates seamlessly with Universal Robots, Franka, KUKA, FANUC, and Omron cobots. USB-C connectivity and standard mounting simplify deployment.
Precision Manipulation
Bin picking, small-part handling, and precision placement leverage the 305's close-range accuracy and 88°×65° field of view.
Assembly Operations
Peg-in-hole, fastener installation, and component alignment require the sub-millimeter precision and low latency the 305 provides.
Inline Inspection
1280×800 depth plus 1280×800 color at 60fps enables real-time defect detection and dimensional measurement.
Humanoid Vision
Minimal mass is critical for humanoid balance and power efficiency.
Software & Hardware Integration
Orbbec SDK v2
Download from GitHub. Supports Windows, Linux, Android with C/C++/Python APIs. Includes point clouds, D2C alignment, multi-camera sync, and ROS1/ROS2 wrappers.
Single-Cable Design
USB Type-C delivers data and power (5V, 700mA). USB 3.0 for full performance; USB 2.0 compatible at reduced rates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the closest the Gemini 305 can see?
4cm—exceptionally close for a depth camera. Optimal working distance: 7-50cm.
How does passive stereo differ from active systems?
Passive uses ambient light only (<2W). Active systems like the Gemini 335 project IR for low-light performance but consume more power. ToF cameras offer longer range but higher minimum distances.
Is it suitable for outdoor use?
IP54 rating is for indoor industrial environments. For outdoor applications, choose 335L (IP65) or 345Lg (IP67).
305 vs 335—which should I choose?
305: 18mm baseline, passive, 68g, 4-100cm—best for wrist mounting. 335: 50mm baseline, active IR, 97g, 0.1-20m—better for general robotics.
Does it support ROS?
Yes—complete ROS1 and ROS2 integration with standard message types.
How do I mount it?
1/4-20 UNC (standard tripod) plus M3 threads on bottom and rear surfaces.
Can I use multiple cameras together?
Yes—hardware trigger and software synchronization are both supported.
What's the power consumption?
Under 2 watts average—among the most efficient depth cameras available.
Summary & Recommendation
The Orbbec Gemini 305 is the definitive choice for cobot wrist mounting. Its 68g weight, sub-millimeter precision, and under-2W power consumption create an unmatched combination for close-range robotic vision. For applications requiring longer range or outdoor durability, explore the complete Orbbec camera range.
Buy Now: Orbbec Gemini 305 at OpenELAB
