Image Sensors Extend Depth Of Field In Phone Cameras

Emerging as the market’s first 0.25-in. optical format, three-megapixel raw Bayer sensors with integrated extended-depth-of-field (EDoF) capabilities, the VD6853 and VD6803 image sensors forecast cell-phone camera modules as small as 6.5 mm x 6.5 mm. The 3.15-megapixel CMOS image sensors rely on a 1.75-µm pixel process that reportedly ensures excellent image quality at focus distances down to 15 cm. The sensors also embed image-enhancement filters including four-channel anti-vignette to balance uneven illumination or defect correction on the fly. Available in the company’s through silicon via wafer-level package, the devices are available with a 10-bit parallel legacy interface (VD6803) or CCP2 interface (VD6853) and they are compatible with most baseband and application processors with an integrated image-signal processor. Engineering samples and demo-kits are available now, with volume production coming in the third quarter. Single-unit pricing is below $5 each. STMICROELECTRONICS, Lexington, MA. (888) 787-3550.