ON Semi Presents EMCCD with Per-Pixel Switchable Gain, More

Business Wire: ON Semiconductor's 2.1MP/30fps KAE-02150 CCD uses an innovative HDR output circuit allowing either CCD (low-gain) or EMCCD (high-gain) outputs to be utilized on a pixel-by-pixel basis within the same image. Charge from each individual pixel is measured and the signal level is compared to a user selectable threshold in the camera system to determine where each charge packet is routed. Pixels from very low-light regions of the scene can be selectively routed to the EMCCD output, while pixels from bright regions of the image – which would typically saturate an EMCCD register and distort the image – are routed to the conventional CCD output amplifier. With this intra-scene switchable gain feature, signals from both outputs can then be re-combined, allowing one camera to properly render bright regions in a dark field of view and enabling dynamic compensation under changing conditions such as headlights entering or leaving an extreme low light scene.

“As the first device to leverage our new Interline Transfer EMCCD technology, the KAE-02150 Image Sensor delivers a revolutionary solution to the industry,” said Chris McNiffe, VP of image sensor products at ON Semiconductor. “By extending the superb image quality and uniformity of CCD devices into the extreme low-light regime, customers in industrial markets now have access to a new level of performance under the most challenging imaging conditions. This is a clear demonstration of ON Semiconductor’s unique ability to bring the most advanced imaging solutions to our customers by leveraging its expansive base of imaging technologies.”

The KAE-02150 CCD is sampling now, and will be available in Monochrome and Bayer Color configurations. An evaluation kit including hardware and software will also be available by the end of 2014, allowing the performance of this new device to be characterized by customers for their specific applications.

Business Wire: ON Semi also introduce two new global shutter CMOS sensors in its PYTHON family. The new PYTHON 2000 and PYTHON 5000, with resolutions of 2.3MP and 5.3MP respectively, aim to general purpose industrial image sensing such as machine vision, inspection and motion monitoring, as well as security, surveillance and intelligent transportation systems (ITS).

“The PYTHON family delivers a high-speed imaging solution without compromising image quality,” said Chris McNiffe. “A choice of resolutions all supported by a single PCB – plus programmability and numerous features that enhance performance – combine to make the PYTHON family an important addition to the market that will allow designers of industrial image systems to meet the most stringent demands from their customers.”

ON Semiconductor’s patented in-pixel CDS (ipCDS) technology enables global shutter imaging with CDS in a 4.8um pixel size, combining a read noise of 9 e- with 7.7 V/lux sensitivity and frame rates as high as 850fps (VGA). Both new sensors are available in mono, color and extended NIR variants. PYTHON 2000 and PYTHON 5000 are sampling now, with full production expected in Q1 2015.