CMOS Sensor Outfits Vision-Based Driver-Assistance Systems

The company’s first high-dynamic-range CMOS camera chip, the VL5510, directly targets vision-based, driver-assistance systems. The sensor feeds a decision-making vision processor that activates functions such as active braking and lane-departure warnings, and, with a 1,024 x512-pixel format, it is suitable for the wide-angle products common to automotive environments. Specifications include a 5.6 ?m x 5.6 ?m pixel size, sensitivity of 7.14 V/lux, dark current of 33 aA/pixel at 25?C, and a quantum efficiency at near infrared. Other features include a fully programmable output image size, frame rates up to 34 fps, and a 12-bit parallel interface or a serial interface (RAW 8/10/12 format). Additionally, the dynamic response of the sensor is fully programmable via 10 knee points. Set for production in early 2009, pricing is in the range of $20 each/10,000 for bare die. For more information, call STMICROELECTRONICS, Lexington, MA. (888) 787-3550.