STMicroelectronics Unveils ST BrightSense Image Sensor Ecosystem for Advanced Camera Performance in Compact Power-Efficient Products
STMicroelectronics introduced the ST BrightSense image sensor ecosystem to improve camera performance in various settings. This technology allows for the development of more efficient and compact products in industries such as factory automation, robotics, AR/VR, and medical applications.
STMicroelectronics has released hardware kits, evaluation camera modules, and software that make it easier for developers to work with their ST BrightSense global-shutter image sensors. This ecosystem allows developers of industrial and consumer applications to incorporate ST BrightSense image sensors for superior camera performance. Global-shutter sensors capture all pixels simultaneously, unlike rolling shutter sensors, allowing them to capture images of fast-moving objects without distortion and consume less power when used with a lighting system.
ST BrightSense CMOS global-shutter sensors use innovative pixel technology that is backside-illuminated, produced at ST's own factory in France to ensure sharp images for tasks like reading barcodes. These sensors have high sensitivity for better performance in low-light conditions and quick image capture, improving functions such as obstacle detection in robots and facial recognition in electronic devices. The sensors are built with advanced 3D-stacked design to take up minimal space, making them easy to integrate in small areas like optical modules. They also include on-chip image processing features for functions like auto-exposure, correction, and calibration. With their MIPI-CSI-2 interface, these sensors are well-suited for use in embedded vision and edge AI devices.
In the past, ST's advanced sensor technologies were only accessible to certain customers, but now they are available in a range of markets through the ST BrightSense portfolio. This includes industrial-grade products with a commitment to longevity of 10 years. These sensors have been proven with over one billion units shipped, allowing developers to bring high-performance machine vision to applications with limited size and power requirements and difficult operating conditions. These applications include factory automation, scanning, robotics, virtual and augmented reality equipment, traffic monitoring, and medical devices.
ST's latest product for the mass market includes camera modules for evaluation that combine an image sensor, lens holder, lens, and flex connector for easy integration of the image sensors. These modules come in small form factors as small as 5mm2, with a range of lens options for different applications and a plug-and-play connector for easy swapping. Hardware kits are available to help developers integrate the sensors with various computing platforms. Additionally, free software tools like a PC-based GUI and Linux drivers can be downloaded from ST's website to assist in integrating the sensors with popular processing platforms like STM32MP2 microprocessors.
The ST BrightSense global-shutter family includes monochrome sensors like the VD55G0, VD55G1, and VD56G3 with resolutions ranging from 0.38Mpixel to 1.5Mpixel, as well as the color sensor VD66GY with 1.5Mpixel resolution. These sensors, along with their evaluation camera modules and development boards, are currently being manufactured. For pricing options and sample requests, please get in touch with your ST sales office or local distributor.
A webinar that is available for viewing at any time can be accessed by registering for free.
To find out more, please visit the website www.st.com/brightsense.
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