OmniVision Technologies Inc. has begun volume production of its OV7950 CMOS CameraChip for automotive as well as security applications. Powered by a 3.3 V dc power supply and featuring a one-quarter-inch sensor, the camera is smaller and less expensive than a CCD camera but can perform as well, according to the company.
The OV7950 can function in low light (0.01 lux) conditions, and within a -40 °C to 105 °C temperature range. It supports NTSC composite video output and can directly interface with an in-car LCD screen or any other device with 75 Ohm composite video loading. A windowing feature allows users to adjust the camera setup by moving the sensitive area of the camera by a few pixels in both the horizontal and vertical directions. Other features include a dual dynamic overlay function that allows for a dynamic and a static visual aid layer (text or graphics) within the image; for example, in guiding systems for backup and parking assist cameras.
The OV7950 is available in 48-pin QFP and CLCC lead-free packages and is subject to AEC-Q100 reliability criteria.