ON Semiconductor introduces a digital image sensor with a 300,000 megapixel resolution

     On Semiconductor, announced the introduction of the ARX3A0 digital image sensor with 300,000 pixel resolution and a 1:1 aspect ratio. Offering capture rates of up to 360 frames per second (fps), the device operates like a global shutter in many conditions, but has the size, performance and response benefits of backlighting (BSI) roll-shutter sensors. With its small size, square format and high frame rate, the ARX3A0 is particularly suitable for emerging machine vision, artificial intelligence and augmented reality (AR)/virtual reality (VR) applications, as well as small auxiliary security cameras.

     Power consumption is increasingly important for many applications that provide still or streaming images. The ARX3A0 is designed to provide flexible, high-performance image capture with minimal power consumption; It consumes less than 19 mW when capturing images at 30 fps and only 2.5 mW when capturing images at 1 fps.

     The 1/10-inch square format enables low-height modules, while the miniature 3.5mm bare core size helps maximize the sensor's field of view. The ARX3A0's small size and square format make it useful for emerging applications where orientation is not fixed but space is limited, such as AR/VR glasses that monitor the wearer's eye movement. Eye movement data can be used to adjust the images viewed, which is thought to alleviate possible motion sickness in some users. Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) is another application where the ARX3A0's small size and low power consumption can play a crucial role.

     The black and white sensor is based on a 560 x 560 active pixel array using ON Semiconductor Near Infrared + (NIR+) technology, resulting in high sensitivity at near infrared wavelengths to provide superior performance in light free or lighting conditions that cannot be detected by the human eye. Advanced power management features include the ability to automatically wake up from low-power mode when motion or light changes in the scene are detected. This makes the sensor the primary wake-up source for the entire camera system, saving even more system power.

     The development of artificial intelligence has expanded into more applications, creating a need for data dedicated to machines rather than humans. The specific requirements of these systems affect image sensor technology. While most image sensors are designed with vision applications in mind, the ARX3A0 is the first of a new class of digital image sensors designed specifically for advanced and increasingly intelligent systems as well as traditional vision systems.

     Gianluca Colli, vice president and general manager of Consumer Solutions at On Semiconductor's Intelligent Perception Division, said: "Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming an integral part of vision-based systems, and it is clear that we now share a new intelligence with the world. The ARX3A0 is designed for a new class of machines where vision is essential for operation."