1 megapixel high-speed global shutter image sensor with high cost performance

     OmniVision introduces the OV9284, a 1-megapixel global shutter image sensor. It is the latest member of Howe's family of automotive image sensors and is ideal for in-car camera modules, as driver condition monitoring (DSM) and passenger surveillance cameras need to be very small and hidden, while complying with strict safety regulations.

     The global automotive image sensor market is set to accelerate due to increased automation and new safety regulations imposed on Level 3 semi-autonomous vehicles. Semi-autonomous vehicles use DSM to track the driver's gaze direction and allow the vehicle to automatically take control if the driver is drowsy or distracted. Currently, DSM is mainly used in high-end vehicles, but in the next few years it will gradually spread to the more cost-sensitive mainstream car market.

     Thilo Rausch, product marketing Manager at OmniVision, said: "The future policy requires that all cars sold in the EU be equipped with driver condition monitoring, starting with models released in 2022. "The OV9284 is the industry's first image sensor, offering the perfect balance of cost-effectiveness, high-quality imaging and advanced performance to meet the needs of the mainstream automotive market."

     The OV9284 also features the industry's best near-infrared (NIR) quantum efficiency (QE) on the driver monitoring image sensor, at 12% efficiency at 940 nm, which helps designers achieve full illumination with fewer leds, thereby reducing overall system cost and power consumption. The sensor consumes only 90mW of energy at 60 frames per second (fps), which is 30% less than similar competitors in the industry. In addition, the high-speed global shutter sensor is based on OmniPixel3-GS™ technology and offers 1280x 800 resolution and video speeds of up to 120fps.