Ams introduces new color proximity and flicker detection sensors

     Ams announced the introduction of its new color (RGB) proximity and flicker detection sensor, the TCS3707, which enables mobile phone cameras to take crisp and flawless photos in artificially lit scenes. The sensor has built-in infrared crosstalk suppression for reliable proximity detection when paired with an infrared transmitter. Available in 2.0mm x 2.5mm x 0.5mm OQFN package.

     A phone camera equipped with the TCS3707 can be used under any conditions, including artificial light sources such as fluorescent or street lights, to avoid being affected by banding or other image artifacts created by invisible flickering of AC power lighting. The TCS3707's ultra-sensitive RGB, high-definition, wideband channels accurately measure the color and intensity of ambient light in a variety of lighting conditions. This enables handset manufacturers to deploy sophisticated display brightness and color management schemes and achieve color balance between camera and flash.

     The device's flicker detection engine can detect the flicker of any artificial light source operating during a 50Hz or 60Hz AC cycle. When taken by an image sensor with a rolling shutter, flickering causes the image to produce bands and other artifacts. This effect occurs when the flash lights up or goes off while the shutter is in operation. The flicker detection feature of the TCS3707 enables the camera controller to synchronize the shutter with the "on" part of the AC cycle. The sensor can also provide flicker measurement for the phone's application processor by using the internal FIFO on the device to support flicker elimination firmware at frequencies other than 50/60Hz.

     Dave Moon, senior product marketing Manager, ams Integrated Optical Sensors Business Line, said, "The phone camera is of great value to consumers, and for most people it has become the primary photography device, replacing the standalone digital camera. "By changing the performance of cameras under artificial light sources, the AMS TCS3707 offers handset Oems an exciting new way to differentiate their products without any fundamental redesign of the camera system architecture."