5MP sensor offers 12-bit output for security apps

Article By : EE Times Asia

The AR0521 is based on a 2.2μm BSI pixel technology that offers higher linear full well and lower noise than a smaller pixel.

On Semiconductor has released the AR0521, a CMOS image sensor based on a 2.2μm Back Side Illuminated (BSI) pixel technology, for security and surveillance applications.

The AR0521 is a small optical format 7.13mm, 5MP digital image sensor with an active pixel array of 2592 x 1944. It captures images in either linear or high dynamic range (HDR) modes with rolling-shutter readout, and includes sophisticated camera functions such as binning, windowing and both video and single frame modes.

The advanced imaging solution offers 8, 10, or 12-bit outputs and features video performance at 5MP 60 frames per second (fps) with a 1440p mode for 16:9 video. Its low-light performance—often an important requirement in security camera applications—is largely due to the larger 2.2μm BSI pixel that offers higher linear full well and lower noise than a smaller pixel.

The AR0521 incorporates both an electronic rolling shutter and global reset release to offer advanced line synchronisation controls for multi-camera (stereo) support. The ability of the AR0521 to produce extraordinarily clear and sharp images is enhanced by sophisticated digital processing functions, including integrated colour and lens shading correction, digital gain and dynamic defect correction.

Primarily aimed at remote video surveillance applications, the AR0521 consumes very little power even when operating at full resolution of 60fps at 10-bit output. The operating temperature range of -30°C to 85°C ambient allows the device to be used successfully outdoors in harsh environments.

With a programmable optical format of 4:3, 16:9 and 1:1, the AR0521 is suitable for multiple use cases in mid- to high-end security applications including panoramic security cameras, bird's eye security cameras, long range security cameras and speed dome security cameras.

Figure 1: AR0521 availability and samples (Source: On Semiconductor)

The AR0521 is available today in mPLCC (12mm x 12mm) package.