Smaller CMOS image sensors enable lower-cost digital-camera solutions

JULY 31--Agilent Technologies Inc. (Palo Alto, CA; www.agilent.com) is now offering a new family of color and monochrome CMOS (complementary metal-oxide semiconductor) image sensors. The smaller sensors, supplied in a 25% smaller and 50% thinner surface-mount package than previous versions, enable the design of compact, lower-cost consumer and industrial digital camera solutions.

The Agilent VGA color image sensors (640 x 480 pixel) are used for PC cameras, detachable cameras for mobile phones and PDAs, and for digital still and dual-mode cameras. The CIF monochrome image sensors (352 x 288 pixel) are for biometrics (identifying individual human characteristics such as fingerprints), surveillance and security, machine vision, and barcode scanners.

Agilent's CMOS image sensors are provided in the new industry-standard 32-pin CLCC (ceramic leadless chip carrier) package. The package is 10.7 x 10.7 x 1.65 mm. The CLCC package features a flat top and more accurate height placement due to flat pins, making optical adjustment quicker and simpler. This new package also features enhanced thermal performance, assuring operating stability over a wider temperature range.

These CMOS image sensors also offer high sensitivity and a low-noise design for capturing more detailed pictures in a variety of lighting conditions. The sensors offer an anti-blooming feature that prevents the whiteout of images taken with a flash, as well as low power consumption that enables more-efficient power management and longer battery life.

The Agilent CMOS image sensors integrate a highly sensitive active pixel photodiode array with timing control and onboard A/D conversion. These image sensors, when coupled with compatible image processors from either Agilent or selected Agilent partners, provide a complete imaging system to enable rapid end-product development for camera manufacturers.