High-performance CMOS image sensors are now available in SLR digital cameras

In digital camera applications, SLR cameras with high-quality images usually prefer CCD sensors because CCD sensors have higher sensitivity and image quality and larger pixel size at the same size. Performance and image quality requirements have always been the main barriers for standard CMOS image sensors to enter SLR camera applications. However, Aptina Imaging has recently launched a high-performance, feature-rich, APS-C format 16-megapixel image sensor MT9H004 . With its unique pixel technology innovation, this product will become an extremely attractive choice in the digital SLR camera market.

The innovative design enables the MT9H004 sensor to achieve the high image quality required by professional photographers. In addition to capturing 16-megapixel still images at 10 frames per second, the MT9H004 sensor also has high sensitivity, low dark current and low readout noise. With the company's latest dynamic response (DR) pixel technology innovation (called Aptina DR-Pix technology), the new APS-C format imaging solution can increase the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) by 5 dB in low-light conditions without sacrificing performance in high-light environments. The maximum signal-to-noise ratio at high brightness can reach 47 dB. Aptina's latest solution also provides advanced features such as live projection video support and excellent 1080p/30 frames per second high-definition (HD) video recording capabilities.

Figure 1: Sandor Barna, vice president and general manager of Aptina's Consumer Camera Business Unit.

"The digital SLR camera market opportunity over the next few years is enormous for our new high-performance APS-C format 16-megapixel CMOS image sensor," said Sandor Barna, vice president and general manager of Aptina's Consumer Camera Business Unit. "Our new sensor is just the first step in gaining a significant position in this promising market."

Aptina DR-Pix technology is capable of operating at sensitivities from ISO100 to ISO3200. It incorporates two pixel response modes into one design to optimize noise performance at low and high ISO sensitivities: low conversion gain (CG) mode provides large pixel Full-Well for optimal low ISO performance in bright scenes; high conversion gain (CG) mode provides high pixel sensitivity for low noise and high ISO performance in low light scenes. Traditional CIS pixel technology must find a compromise between low and high ISO performance.

Aptina's 14-megapixel image sensor MT9F002 , which was launched at the same time , incorporates the company's latest Aptina A-Pix pixel technology, which increases low-light sensitivity by nearly 25% (compared to the same CCD), and significantly improves the quality of static image capture compared to the previous 14-megapixel image sensor. Sandor Barna said that Aptina A-Pix technology can capture clear images with vivid colors in low-light conditions by improving quantum efficiency and minimizing crosstalk, thus overcoming the shortcomings of traditional sensors in low-light conditions.

The high-speed MT9F002 sensor not only uses 1.4-micron pixel technology, but also comes with advanced features such as electronic image stabilization (EIS) and digital image resampling. This sensor also has full HD photography capabilities (1080p/60fps) and flexible high-speed interface options: including 4-channel HiSPi (high-speed serial pixel interface), parallel interface or four-channel MIPI I. As shown in the figure below, in full HD mode, the 1080×1920 pixel portion of the MT9F002 capture is transmitted to the DSP for image processing, while the 10% pixel margin around it is used for electronic image stabilization. Using Aptina A-Pix technology, pictures taken by mobile phone cameras will be able to achieve the same clear effect as digital cameras, and can also help camera manufacturers develop hybrid cameras that combine digital still image capture and advanced high-performance HD photography functions.

Figure 2: Full HD 1080p60 + 20% EIS.

Aptina is a leader in CMOS imaging technology and holds the top position in the CMOS imaging sensor market (revenue share in 2009). Its products are widely used in mobile phones, notebook computers, digital cameras and camcorders, surveillance, medical, automotive and industrial applications, video conferencing, barcode scanners, toys and games. The company separated from Micron in 2009 to become an independent company.

The MT9H004 image sensor is available in a 116-pin CLCC package, with production scheduled to begin in Q1 2011. The MT9F002 sensor is available in a 48-pin iLCC package (for HiSPi and parallel interfaces) or as a bare die (for MIPI), with production scheduled to begin in Q1 2011.