Midwest Optical Systems

Midwest Optical Systems A leading manufacturer of custom precision optical filters, components, and imaging solutions since Unmounted filters are offered in custom shapes and sizes.

A manufacturer of custom precision optical components and imaging solutions since 1988, Midwest Optical Systems - MidOpt - is recognized as the world’s leading resource for off-the-shelf and custom machine vision filters, lenses and accessories used in industrial imaging applications. MidOpt has an extensive history in optical component design, fabrication and inspection, and continues to develop

innovative new products for industrial imaging that are simply not found elsewhere. Industries served: machine vision, security, surveillance, LPR, scientific, bio-medical and NDVI. MidOpt’s complete line of filters cover the visible, near-infrared and UV spectrums. They represent the easiest, most cost effective method for insuring the reliability, stability and repeatability of industrial imaging systems. MidOpt filters are rugged; environmentally stable; heat and solvent resistant; non-hygroscopic and oleophobic, and are easy to maintain. Various designs are available for use in:

· Refining color recognition and improving separation of subject matter
· Ease viewing of desired features through contrast enhancement
· Elimination of glare or hot spots from highly reflective surfaces
· Saving cost, space and system maintenance and start-up time by eliminating the need for shrouding
· Protecting camera lenses and lighting from dust, scratching and inhospitable environments
· Enhancing lens resolving capability by greatly reducing chromatic aberrations.
· Boosting system speed and efficiency while substantially decreasing false accepts/false rejects.
· Reducing required luminous intensity, thereby saving on lighting cost and maximizing the lifespan of LED or other light sources. MidOpt offers the largest variety of threaded filter mount sizes and types in stock ranging from M13.25 to M105. MidOpt filters can be fastened to any camera lens with the appropriate mounting solution.

As inspection requirements become more demanding, optimizing how light reaches the camera sensor becomes critical. While...
04/20/2026

As inspection requirements become more demanding, optimizing how light reaches the camera sensor becomes critical.

While cameras often receive the most attention, optical filters play a key role in controlling light within a machine vision system. By isolating specific wavelengths and blocking unwanted ambient light, filters help create clearer, more consistent images for inspection.

When properly integrated with lighting and lenses, filters can significantly improve contrast, reduce glare and reveal details that might otherwise remain hidden.

Select MidOpt® non-standard machine vision filters are currently available in limited quantities and ready to ship. Beca...
04/16/2026

Select MidOpt® non-standard machine vision filters are currently available in limited quantities and ready to ship. Because these items are already manufactured, they’re being offered at discounted pricing.

For engineers working on prototype systems, testing new configurations or needing a quick solution, this can be a great opportunity to access high-performance filters without the lead time of a custom production run.

✔ Ready-to-ship MidOpt® filters
✔ Trusted performance for machine vision systems
✔ Limited quantities available

Explore current availability:
midopt.com/limited-stock/

Need to decrease working distance or increase magnification without replacing your lens? MidOpt® Close-Up Lens Sets prov...
04/14/2026

Need to decrease working distance or increase magnification without replacing your lens?

MidOpt® Close-Up Lens Sets provide a simple, cost-effective solution. These lenses thread directly onto the front of your existing lens, allowing you to focus closer and capture greater detail for inspection and imaging applications.

Each set includes +1, +2 and +4 diopters, which can be used individually or stacked for increased magnification and flexibility. Available in durable black anodized aluminum rings in sizes M25.5-M62, they’re an easy upgrade to enhance your current setup.

Inspect with sharper focus – no redesign required.

More: https://midopt.com/accessories/close-up-lenses/

We’re headed to SPIE Defense + Security in National Harbor, MD! 🎉Excited to connect with partners, explore the latest in...
04/13/2026

We’re headed to SPIE Defense + Security in National Harbor, MD! 🎉

Excited to connect with partners, explore the latest in imaging and sensing, and talk all things defense + security (and of course, filters 😉).

If you’ll be there, come say hi — we’d love to catch up! 👋

We’re heading to the Automation Tech Fair on April 23 in Minneapolis, MN! 🎉Looking forward to seeing the latest in autom...
04/09/2026

We’re heading to the Automation Tech Fair on April 23 in Minneapolis, MN! 🎉

Looking forward to seeing the latest in automation and machine vision, connecting with great people, and talking all things innovation. If you’re there too — come say hi! 👋

Real-World Neutral Density Application Results BEFORE: Without filtering, high temperatures and intense light cause imag...
04/08/2026

Real-World Neutral Density Application Results

BEFORE: Without filtering, high temperatures and intense light cause image saturation and loss of detail.

AFTER: By combining a MidOpt® Shortpass filter with a Neutral Density (ND) filter, overall light intensity is reduced while blocking excess red and near-infrared wavelengths—minimizing blooming and restoring image clarity.

Proper light control ensures reliable inspection, even in high-temperature environments.

MidOpt will be attending AHTD Spring Meeting 2026 in Nashville.We’re looking forward to connecting with industry leaders...
04/07/2026

MidOpt will be attending AHTD Spring Meeting 2026 in Nashville.

We’re looking forward to connecting with industry leaders, exploring advancements in automation and distribution, and gaining insights from a strong lineup of sessions.

If you’ll be attending, we’d welcome the opportunity to connect.

Today we celebrate Tom's retirement after 13 incredible years at MidOpt®! 🎉Tom has been a valued teammate, leader and fr...
04/07/2026

Today we celebrate Tom's retirement after 13 incredible years at MidOpt®! 🎉

Tom has been a valued teammate, leader and friend whose impact will be felt for years to come. From his many contributions across the company to leading MidOpt® ISO certification efforts, his dedication helped shape who we are today.

We sent Tom off in true style – with a company lunch and toast, and a tribute to his signature look: t-shirt and shorts… even in the middle of a Chicago winter. 👕❄️

Tom, thank you for everything you’ve given to this team. You will be greatly missed, but we’re so excited for you as you begin this next chapter.

Join us in wishing Tom all the best in retirement – congratulations! 👏

Real-World Ultraviolet Application Results BEFORE: With unfiltered imaging, low contrast makes it difficult to detect da...
04/06/2026

Real-World Ultraviolet Application Results

BEFORE: With unfiltered imaging, low contrast makes it difficult to detect dark grease on a black seal.

AFTER: A MidOpt® UV filter blocks unwanted UV and ambient light, increasing contrast between the grease and surrounding material for clearer detection.

When inspection requires identifying subtle differences on dark materials, proper wavelength control can dramatically improve visibility and reliability.

Happy Easter Weekend from MidOpt®.Our team will be taking a short break for the holiday and will be closed Friday, April...
04/03/2026

Happy Easter Weekend from MidOpt®.

Our team will be taking a short break for the holiday and will be closed Friday, April 3. Shipping and normal operations will resume Monday, April 6.

We hope you enjoy a relaxing holiday weekend with family and friends.

Real-World Polarizer Application Results BEFORE: Ambient light washes out a 2D matrix code on a reflective metal surface...
03/31/2026

Real-World Polarizer Application Results

BEFORE: Ambient light washes out a 2D matrix code on a reflective metal surface under LED illumination.

AFTER: A MidOpt® polarizing filter blocks ambient reflections and enhances the contrast of the code — delivering clearer, more reliable image capture.

When glare interferes with inspection accuracy, polarization makes the difference. Control reflections. Improve readability. Increase reliability.

Real-World Visible Light Application Results BEFORE: Copper leads reflect light, making clear liquid flux nearly impossi...
03/25/2026

Real-World Visible Light Application Results

BEFORE: Copper leads reflect light, making clear liquid flux nearly impossible to detect.

AFTER: By adding polarizer film to the light source and a matching polarizing filter on the lens, glare is eliminated — allowing the flux to be clearly identified.

Controlling reflections is often the key to accurate inspection. With proper polarization, even transparent materials become visible.

Better light control. Better results.

Address

322 N Woodwork Lane
Palatine, IL
60067

Opening Hours

Monday 7am - 5pm
Tuesday 7am - 5pm
Wednesday 7am - 5pm
Thursday 7am - 5pm
Friday 7am - 5pm

Telephone

+18473593550

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