Feb 11 2008
OmniVision Technologies, Inc., the world's largest supplier of CMOS image sensors, today claimed a mobile handset industry first with the introduction of the OV3642, a 1/4-inch, 3 megapixel CameraChip(TM) sensor with TrueFocus(TM) technology embedded on-chip. The fully integrated OV3642 is built with OmniVision's new OmniPixel3-HS(TM) technology which delivers double the sensitivity (960mV/Lux-sec) of other manufacturers' 1/4" 3 megapixel SOC sensors, offering best in class low light performance.
TrueFocus technology optimizes optics, sensors and image processing to maximize camera performance and minimize system size and cost. Using TrueFocus in camera phones enables true 'point-and-shoot' capability, where the entire scene -- from 20 cm to infinity -- is always in focus, a benefit that applies equally to video capture. There are no moving optical components and thus there is no delay in image capture. TrueFocus technology enables instant one-click capture and therefore no 'missed opportunities' for the camera user.
The OV3642 has an embedded microcontroller to support an internal auto focus engine that is controllable via its general purpose I/Os. This provides customers the flexibility to use the OV3642 in a variety of camera designs targeting fixed focus, TrueFocus and auto focus solutions.
"With the OV3642, our customers can now benefit from a revolutionary single-chip solution that offers best-in-class low light performance combined with extended focal-range capability at a competitive cost point, all in a package that fits standard 8.5mm by 8.5mm sockets," said Per Rosdahl, Director of Marketing at OmniVision. "With now three 1/4-inch 3 megapixel product offerings, OmniVision is delivering truly innovative optimized solutions that improve imaging functionality, camera performance and the overall user experience."
The OV3642 also includes an embedded image stabilization function to prevent image blur, thereby producing sharper images. This feature is especially important in low light situations, where cameras need a longer exposure time, and require the photographer to keep a steady hand.
The OV3642 image array operates at up to 15 frames per second (fps) in full resolution (QXGA) transferred over either a two lane MIPI interface, or a traditional parallel interface. The sensor also contains an integrated JPEG compression engine simplifying bandwidth limited interfaces. The parallel port can also be used as input for an external secondary camera, allowing the camera to use the OV3642's highly advanced image signal processor (ISP) and share the MIPI interface.
For identification and production control purposes, the OV3642 includes one-time programmable memory. All required image processing functions are programmable through the SCCB interface.
The OV3642 is currently available for customer sampling. Volume production is expected in the third quarter of 2008.