Cameras Get Even Smaller with Micron Technology's New 1/5-Inch, 1.3-Megapixel Image Sensor
Camera phones and webcams continue to get thinner, sleeker and more powerful with new imaging innovations being driven by Micron Technology, Inc. (NYSE:MU). Today Micron introduced a new, smaller 1.3-megapixel image sensor designed to fit into a 1/5-inch optical format.
"As a pioneer in imaging technology, we are committed to expanding our portfolio of products, encouraging new camera innovations from our customers," said Hisayuki Suzuki, senior director of marketing for Micron's imaging group. "Designed on our stunning 2.2 micron pixel technology, and despite shrinking the form factor, the image quality of the new 1.3-megapixel sensor is one of the best in its class."
There are certain image quality values that must be met for webcams and camera phones, one of which is fast frame rates for capturing crisp, clear video. The new Micron image sensor (product number MT9M019) captures 30 frames per second (fps) at full 1.3-megapixel resolution (1,280 by 1,024 pixels) or 60 fps at VGA resolution (640 by 480 pixels), allowing for high-quality, seamless video. Another important feature for webcam and camera phone applications is a high dynamic range, which ensures the user a high-quality picture or video in various lighting conditions. The dynamic range of the new MT9M019 sensor meets and exceeds all application requirements -- in fact, it can image as low as 1 lux (equivalent to the light from one candle). Additionally, another critical design factor is its small 1/5-inch form factor, allowing it to fit into applications requiring the smallest footprint and camera height. Finally, a key feature of the new sensor is its compatibility with the Standard Mobile Imaging Architecture (SMIA), making it easier to integrate the MT9M019 into camera modules for mobile phones.
The MT9M019 is sampling now and will be available for mass production later this year. For more information about Micron's new sensor, visit http://www.micron.com/products/cmos/1_3/.
Micron's CMOS image sensor portfolio offers designers of virtually every image-capture application the flexibility, speed, resolution, feature set and innovative thinking to develop high-quality products. Micron's portfolio of CMOS image sensors are used in a variety of applications that span the mobile, consumer, medical, automotive, commercial, industrial and high-speed markets. Additional information about Micron Imaging can be found at http://www.micron.com/products/imaging.
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