CHARGE-COUPLED DEVICES: CCD imagers take new pixel approach for high-end applications

摘要

Developed for professional digital still cameras and high-definition TVs, leading-edge CCD technology now offers 12 X 12 (mu)m pixels with as much as 3k X 4k-pixel resolution--ideal for demanding applications such as medical and scientific imaging. While consumer requirements force manufactures of imagers based on charge-coupled devices (CCD) and complementary metal-oxide semiconductors (CMOS) to decrease the pixel sizes, the driving factor for professional applications is better image quality. In mobile phones, CMOS imagers with pixel sizes as small as 1.45 X 1.45 (mu)m are now entering the market. Because pixel size reduction allows higher sensor resolution without a significant increase in cost of the imaging module, the pixel race still dominates in this market. Typical chip sizes are smaller than 0.5 X 0.5 cm, with resolutions up to 5 megapixels.