CMOS image sensors outperform CCD versions A line of CMOS image sensors in surface-mount plastic

CMOS image sensors outperform CCD versions A line of CMOS image sensors in surface-mount plastic optical packages offer lower-cost, lower-power, and smaller-area alternatives to CCD types. The RI0352P passive sensor and the RI0352A active sensor provide 352 ¥ 288-pixel resolution for video applications. They incorporate 30 frames/s, an f/2 lens, an on-chip 10-bit A/D converter, a signal-to-noise ratio of 44 dB at 200 lux, a four-wire interface to imagers, a two-wire bidirectional serial communications interface, and a single 3.3-V power supply. Higher resolutions are furnished by the RI0960A (960 ¥ 720 pixels), the RI0800A (800 x 600 pixels), and the RI0640A (640 ¥ 480 pixels) for digital still and security cameras, portable communications devices, and video applications. Prices range from $18 to $63. Rockwell Semiconductor Systems Inc., 4311 Jamboree Rd., Newport, CA 92660; (800) 854-8099.