Inside the Cognex In-Sight Spreadsheet
Thursday 09 Apr 2026 · 2:30
When it comes to programming Cognex In-Sight machine vision cameras, we have two options inside Cognex In-Sight Vision Suite.
For users who are new to the system and have less experience, or just need to program foundational applications, we have the EasyBuilder software.
For experienced users with complex tasks that require more flexibility, we use the Cognex In-Sight Spreadsheet.
EasyBuilder is designed to be easy to use (as the name suggests!). With a straightforward user interface, it works on a point-and-click basis, enabling the user to quickly and easily configure jobs.
Cognex In-Sight Spreadsheet has far more flexibility and enables the user to program more complex applications. Experienced integrators, like ourselves at Visicon, use the Spreadsheet interface as our go-to programming environment for machine vision applications.
Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of the Cognex In-Sight Vision Suite EasyBuilder and Spreadsheet programming environments:
EasyBuilder vs. Spreadsheet
EasyBuilder
Pros:
- Simple to set up and get started
- Step-by-step workflow
- Visual interface
- Drag and drop
- Minimal programming knowledge required
Cons:
- Limited flexibility
- Limited features
- Black box feeling – you can’t always see what’s under the hood
Spreadsheet
Pros:
- High degree of flexibility
- Can build anything the camera is capable of
- Advanced logic control and the ability to combine tool results
- Handles complex applications
- Easier to troubleshoot, as functions can be seen
Cons:
- Slower for simple tasks
- Steep learning curve
- Less visually intuitive
- Can be easier to break things if you don’t have experience
One thing to note is that if you start programming your application in EasyBuilder, you’re able to use the Spreadsheet for more programming options.
However, the reverse is not possible; if you begin programming in Spreadsheet, you’re not able to make use of EasyBuilder.
The Most Powerful Tool in Cognex Spreadsheet
Given that the Spreadsheet interface offers the most flexibility, you may think that one of its advanced tools or functions would be the most powerful.
However, as we all know, often it’s the simple things in life that offer the most reward!
So, when the founder of Visicon, Peter Jelf, who’s known as the No-BS Machine Vision expert, was asked “What is the most powerful feature in Cognex In-Sight Spreadsheet?”, his response was a surprising one.
In this video, Peter takes us through the inner workings of Cognex Spreadsheet to demonstrate why one of the simplest functions is also the most valuable.
Tailored Machine Vision Solutions
Machine vision systems offer a world of automation possibilities when combined with hardware such as robotics and flexible feeding systems.
At Visicon, we have the knowledge and experience to provide automation solutions that will save you time and money by driving efficiency into your production line.
To find out more, simply book a discovery call now.
