Global shutter 48-megapixel CMOS image sensor, providing low noise, high frame rate, and dynamic range characteristics

ams (Korea Branch Representative Lee Jong-deok) announced that CMOSIS, an affiliate of the ams Group, has launched the new CMV50000 global shutter CMOS image sensor, which is the industry's first to support a high resolution of 48 megapixels, with a resolution more than double that of the company's previous global shutter CMOS image sensor.

The CMV50000 is a medium-format 48-megapixel sensor that utilizes a patented 8-transistor pixel architecture to provide not only low noise but also excellent electronic shutter efficiency, achieving a resolution of 7920 x 6002 with 4.6µm pixels. Global shutter motion refers to a technology that captures images of fast-moving subjects without distortion.

The pixels of the CMV50000 provide an optical dynamic range of 64dB at maximum resolution and up to 64dB in subsampled 4K mode, and the imager can capture high-quality images even in low-light environments through the implementation of sophisticated new on-chip noise reduction circuits such as black level clamping.

This sensor is suitable for TV broadcasting and video cameras as well as high-speed machine vision systems because it operates with 12-bit pixel depth and a fast 30fps frame rate at maximum resolution or binned 4K mode, and at up to 60fps using pixel subsampling at 4K resolution.

The CMV50000 enables detailed viewing of large areas in factory automation applications such as automated optical inspection (AOI) systems and display inspection systems for mobile phones, tablets, laptops, and TVs. In addition, the combination of high frame rates and high resolution characteristics allows consumer electronics assembly plants to further increase their existing excellent throughput rates.

High Dynamic Range (HDR) mode is supported by odd/even column double exposure operation. The CMV50000 is expected to replace high-pixel-count CCD (charge-coupled device) image sensors used in machine vision cameras and advanced security cameras. Compared to older CCD sensor technology, CMOS image sensors are easier to integrate into camera designs, consume less power, and can operate at higher frame rates.

Wim Wuyts, Marketing Manager for Image Sensors at ams, stated, “With the launch of the 48-megapixel CMV50000, camera manufacturers can not only take advantage of the design and operation benefits of CMOS image sensors but also achieve ultra-high resolution that was previously only possible through the use of CCD sensors.”

He also said, “The CMV50000 exhibits excellent noise reduction characteristics through the combination of a high optical dynamic range and black level clamping technology. As a result, it enables excellent image quality even at maximum operating speeds without the complex analog output matching required for multi-tap CCD image sensors, and allows for a significant reduction in camera development time.”

Samples of the monochrome version of the CMV50000 are currently available, and samples of the color version are scheduled to be available at the end of 2016. The product price is 3,450 euros.