Sony Semiconductor Solutions introduces groundbreaking CMOS image sensor for automotive cameras, revolutionizing RAW and YUV image processing.

Sony Semiconductor Solutions Corporation (SSS) has announced the upcoming release of the ISX038 CMOS image sensor for automotive cameras. This sensor is the industry’s first product that can simultaneously process and output RAW and YUV images.

The ISX038 has a proprietary ISP inside, allowing it to process and output both RAW and YUV images at the same time. RAW images are essential for external environment detection and recognition in advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving systems (AD), while YUV images are used for infotainment applications such as drive recorders and Augmented Reality (AR).

By expanding the capabilities of a single camera, the ISX038 simplifies automotive camera systems, saving space, cost, and power. This is particularly important as the roles of automotive cameras continue to diversify with advancements in ADAS and AD technology.

The ISX038 features a stacked structure with a pixel chip and a logic chip with a signal processing circuit. The proprietary ISP is located on the logic chip. This design enables the camera to provide high-precision detection and recognition of the environment outside the vehicle, as well as visual information for infotainment applications. Compared to multi-camera systems or systems with an external ISP, the ISX038 helps reduce complexity and optimize efficiency.

The ISX038 is compatible with the EyeQ™6 System-on-a-Chip (SoC) offered by Mobileye, making it suitable for use in ADAS and AD technology.

Key Features of the ISX038 include:
– Simultaneous processing and output of RAW and YUV images
– Wide dynamic range even during simultaneous use of HDR and LED flicker mitigation
– Compatibility with conventional products, allowing for the reuse of data assets
– Compliance with automotive application standards, ensuring reliability

The ISX038 has a planned sample shipment date of October 2024, with a sample price of ¥15,000 (including tax).

Key Specifications of the ISX038 include:
– Effective pixels: 3,857×2,177 (H×V), approx. 8.39 megapixels
– Image size: Diagonal 9.30mm (1/1.72-type)
– Unit cell size: 2.1μm×2.1μm (H×V)
– Frame rate: 30fps (RAW&YUV dual output)
– Sensitivity: 880mV (Green Pixel)
– Dynamic range: 106 dB (with LED flicker mitigation), 130 dB (dynamic range priority)
– Interface: MIPI CSI-2 serial output (Single port with 4-lanes / Dual port with 2-lanes per port)
– Package: 192pin BGA
– Package size: 11.85mm×8.60mm (H×V)

Overall, the ISX038 CMOS image sensor offers advanced capabilities for automotive cameras, contributing to the development of ADAS and AD technology while simplifying camera systems.

Background Information

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About Sony: Sony Corporation, a global conglomerate renowned for its diverse range of innovative consumer electronics and entertainment offerings, has also made significant strides in the realm of computer products. Leveraging its expertise in engineering and technology, Sony has introduced cutting-edge laptops, tablets, and accessories that blend sleek design with robust performance. These computer products bear the hallmark of Sony's commitment to quality and innovation, catering to both casual users and professionals seeking powerful computing solutions. With a history of pushing technological boundaries, Sony's computer products showcase its dedication to creating devices that seamlessly integrate into modern lifestyle

  

Technology Explained

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Augmented Reality: Augmented Reality (AR) is a technology that combines the real world with virtual elements, creating an enhanced and interactive experience. In simpler terms, it is like adding a layer of digital information on top of what we see in the real world. This technology has various applications in the computer industry, making it an exciting and rapidly growing field. One of the most common uses of AR in the computer industry is in gaming. With AR, gamers can immerse themselves in a virtual world and interact with digital objects as if they were real. AR is also being used in education, where students can visualize complex concepts and interact with them in a more engaging way. In the business world, AR is being used for training and simulations, allowing employees to practice real-life scenarios in a safe and controlled environment. Additionally, AR is being integrated into e-commerce, allowing customers to try on products virtually before making a purchase. With its endless possibilities, AR is revolutionizing the computer industry and enhancing our daily lives in

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HDR: High Dynamic Range (HDR) is a technology used to create images and videos with a greater range of luminance levels than what is possible with standard digital imaging. It allows for a greater range of colors and details to be captured in an image, resulting in a more realistic and vibrant look.

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SoC: A System-on-Chip (SoC) is a highly integrated semiconductor device that encapsulates various electronic components, including processors, memory, input/output interfaces, and often specialized hardware components, all on a single chip. SoCs are designed to provide a complete computing system or subsystem within a single chip package, offering enhanced performance, power efficiency, and compactness. They are commonly used in a wide range of devices, from smartphones and tablets to embedded systems and IoT devices, streamlining hardware complexity and facilitating efficient integration of multiple functions onto a single chip.