Targeting Industrial, Security, and Smart Home Markets with 5.1-Megapixel Dual-Mode Image Sensor
Optimal performance and high-quality image delivery in various lighting environments, equipped with powerful security features
2.25μm, 27% improved sensitivity · Built-in HDR merging function · Up to 90fps · Various formats
[Editor's Note] In the era of physical AI, demand for advanced image sensors featuring fast global shutters, high sensitivity, high resolution, and low power consumption is surging in fields such as industrial robotics, logistics automation, security and surveillance systems, smart homes, and intelligent transportation systems. Amidst this, the 5.1-megapixel image sensor supplied by STMicroelectronics is gaining attention in the industrial, security, and smart home markets by simultaneously supporting global shutters and rolling shutters to provide optimal performance in various lighting environments and capture high-quality images in both bright and dark conditions. Additionally, a webinar titled "The World Seen Together by Humans and Machines: The 5.1MP Dual Shutter Image Sensor" is scheduled to be held via the e4ds ee Webinar on December 9. Accordingly, this magazine arranged a meeting with ST Deputy General Manager Nam Hyung-don, who is conducting the webinar presentation, to hear about the 5.1-megapixel dual-mode image sensor.
■ I would like to hear about ST's new 5.1-megapixel imaging solution and why it is attracting attention. Based on advanced image sensor technology, ST’s imaging solutions provide innovative products optimized for both computer vision and human vision.
In particular, through dual-mode pixel technology that simultaneously supports global shutter and rolling shutter, it delivers outstanding performance in various lighting environments and use cases.
In addition, reliability and safety have been ensured by integrating robust security features into the image sensor, and the development of customized solutions is supported through flexible programming and various output options.
I believe that such technical excellence and broad applicability are the main reasons why ST Imaging Solutions are receiving attention.
■ What solution (or product) is being introduced The advanced image sensor series introduced here features a 5.1-megapixel resolution and large pixels measuring 2.25 micrometers (μm), and is characterized by innovative dual-mode pixel technology that simultaneously supports global shutter and rolling shutter.
This sensor incorporates both RGB and near-infrared (NIR) pixels to provide high-quality images optimized for both bright and dark environments as well as various lighting conditions.
In particular, independent and simultaneous exposure control is available for each of the RGB and NIR pixels.It is capable and achieves low noise levels and high sensitivity through built-in HDR merging and smart upscaling functions.
■ Major applicable applications are The major application areas are as follows.
- Industrial Robotics and Automation: With fast global shutter capabilities and high sensitivity, it is utilized in robot vision, logistics warehouse automation, and industrial site monitoring.
- Security and Surveillance Systems: Optimized for access control and real-time surveillance cameras based on high resolution and excellent low-light performance.
- Smart Home and IoT Cameras: Suitable for smart home security and IoT devices due to their low power consumption and the ability to provide clear video in both bright and dark environments (e.g., day and night).
- AR/VR and Action Camera: Supports an outstanding user experience in the fields of augmented reality, virtual reality, and action cameras with high frame rates and high-quality HDR video.
- Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS): Utilized for traffic flow monitoring and smart city solutions, it enhances traffic safety and efficiency.
■ What are the key requirements of the market/industry, and how do ST products/solutions meet these requirements? 1. High sensitivity and low noise level
It must provide clear and accurate images in various lighting environments, especially in low-light and nighttime conditions. This image sensor provides clear and crisp images even in low-light environments with large 2.25-micrometer (μm) pixels and an optimized BSI structure.
2. Wide Dynamic Range (HDR)
Wide contrast expression that does not miss details, even in environments where bright and dark areas coexist, is essential. This image sensor provides strong performance in various lighting environments through a wide range of over 100dB.
3. Flexible dual support for global shutter and rolling shutter
It is necessary to be able to utilize the global shutter, which can capture fast movements without distortion, and the rolling shutter, which provides high-quality video with low noise, depending on the situation. Equipped with a dual sensor, this image sensor allows for the flexible use of either the global shutter or the rolling shutter as needed.
4. Simultaneous support for RGB and Near-Infrared (NIR) and independent exposure control
It is necessary to respond to various lighting conditions, such as day and night, and this product can utilize RGB and NIR pixels simultaneously.
5. High frame rate and low latency
To be suitable for applications requiring real-time video processing and fast response, this image sensor supports high frame rates (up to 100fps) and low latency.
6. Cybersecurity and Reliability
This image sensor enhances security through mutual authentication between the sensor and the host, as well as video stream authentication. This enables the construction of a reliable system that meets industrial standards.
7. Flexible programming and various output options
It is important to be able to flexibly adjust sensor settings and output formats to suit various system environments, and to ensure compatibility with standard ISPs. This product supports customized system designs by providing four programmable contexts and support for various output formats.
8. Miniaturization and Low-Power Design
Miniaturization and low power characteristics are essential for efficient operation even in limited space and battery environments. Through a compact pixel and die size design, this product is suitable for space-constrained applications and provides efficient power consumption.
■ What differentiates it from competitor products (or existing products)? 1. Larger pixel size (2.25μm vs 1.998μm)
With a pixel size approximately 27% larger, sensitivity is improved, delivering excellent performance in low-light environments.
2. Dual-mode pixel support for Global Shutter and Rolling Shutter
While most competitors support only rolling shutter, this product supports both shutter modes, allowing you to select the optimal shutter method depending on lighting conditions and application.
3. Built-in HDR merging function
It processes HDR merging within the sensor to reduce the burden on the host processor and reliably provides high-quality HDR video. Many competitor products lack this feature, requiring separate post-processing.
4. Independent and simultaneous exposure control capable RGB and NIR pixels
Separate exposure settings are possible for each RGB and NIR pixel, enabling optimized image quality even under various lighting conditions.
5. Built-in cybersecurity features
It boasts robust security features compared to competitor products. It provides an enhanced security solution by including sensor-host mutual authentication and video stream authentication capabilities.
6. High frame rate and various output options
It supports up to 100fps and provides various output formats compatible with standard ISPs, enabling flexible system design.
7. Excellent noise filtering and image quality
It provides cleaner and sharper images compared to competitors by applying advanced noise reduction technologies such as 5x5 filtering.
These differentiated capabilities of ST's advanced image sensors are key competitive factors in establishing them as high-performance, high-reliability solutions across various industries.
■ Please share a few words with the readers of e4ds regarding the content introduced today. Thank you for taking the time to take an interest in ST Imaging Solutions' advanced image sensors.
This product is an innovative solution optimized for both computer vision and human vision, based on advanced dual-mode pixel technology, excellent sensitivity, and low-noise performance.
We will strive to provide even greater support so that ST’s imaging solutions can assist our customers in their projects and development.
thank you
기사입력2025.12.02 00:00
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