STMicroelectronics introduces a small, low-power, high-resolution global shutter image sensor

     STMicroelectronics, one of the world's leading suppliers of TS5A3159DBVR semiconductor solutions, recently introduced a new global shutter image sensor called the VD55G1. The sensor's small size, low power consumption and high resolution make it ideal for many applications.

     Alexandre Balmefezol, Executive Vice President and General Manager of ST's Imaging Products Group, said: "Our new global shutter image sensor has high resolution and small size, making it ideal for wearables such as smart glasses and AR/VR headsets, as well as personal robots, industrial robots and smart home devices. All of these applications will benefit from the sensor's high performance, small size, ultra-low power consumption and optimized cost."

     The new sensor is smaller, measuring just 2.7 mm x 2.2 mm, with a original resolution of 800 x 700 pixels. The low power consumption means that a smaller capacity battery can be used, the imaging performance is excellent, and the contrast and image sharpness are high. The sensor also provides event-like image streaming capabilities, making it ideal for eye tracking and other motion estimation uses.

     The new global shutter image sensor also features innovative embedded features, such as native background deletion, which reduces the host's image post-processing effort. The new sensor also has an "always on" 1mW autonomous mode, which continuously senses even when the main engine is turned off, saving power. When movement or scene changes are detected, the system will wake up automatically.

     The VD55G1 Global shutter sensor completes ST's portfolio of specialized sensors, leveraging the company's advanced semiconductor processes  to achieve an industry-leading 2.16um pixel size, high sensitivity and low cross talk. Advanced semiconductor processes combined with pixel architecture innovations minimize the sensor pixel array area on the top of the chip while maximizing data processing power and functionality on the bottom of the chip.

     The VD55G1 sensor uses ST's unique pixel technology to enable global exposure in a single shutter operation. This means that the sensor can capture the entire image at the same time, without having to split the image into multiple parts for continuous exposure. Global shutter operation eliminates the problem of image distortion and blurring due to continuous exposure, so it can provide clear images at high speeds when moving objects.

     The VD55G1 sensor has a high resolution that allows it to capture more detail and more precise images. It uses an advanced pixel architecture where each pixel has its own storage unit that can store and read image data independently. This architecture provides a larger light-sensitive area, helps improve the efficiency of light collection, and provides a higher signal-to-noise ratio. As a result, the VD55G1 sensor provides sharper, brighter images in low light conditions.

     In addition, the VD55G1 sensor also has the advantage of small size and low power consumption. It uses advanced integrated circuit design and process technology to achieve highly integrated functions in small packages. This allows the sensor to be adapted for a variety of compact devices, such as smartphones, tablets and camcorders. In addition, the low-power design of the sensor extends the battery life of the device, providing a longer use time.

     The VD55G1 sensor also has several other advanced functions and features. For example, it supports high dynamic range (HDR) image capture, which can capture both brightness and dark details in high-contrast scenes. The sensor also supports a variety of image processing functions, such as automatic white balance, autofocus, and image noise reduction. These features can provide richer, more realistic image effects, enabling users to take better photos and videos.

     To sum up, the VD55G1 global shutter image sensor from ST has the characteristics of small size, low power consumption and high resolution. This sensor will provide higher quality image capture capabilities for devices such as smartphones, tablets and camcorders, bringing a better user experience. With the continuous progress of technology, it is believed that the VD55G1 sensor will be more widely used in the future.