Advanced output chains for CMOS image sensors based on an active column sensor approach - a detailed comparison

摘要

A detailed comparison between four types of pixels, based on a CMOS active column sensor (ACS) output chain technique is presented. A test chip of 64 x 64 pixels consisting of four 16 x 64 arrays, each with a different output chain, has been implemented in 0.35 mum CMOS technology available through MOSIS and operated via a 3.3 V supply. The chip includes four different amplifier/pixel combinations: (a) an n-channel based voltage amplifier with an n-channel reset transistor, (b) an n-channel based voltage amplifier with a p-channel reset transistor, (c) a p-channel based voltage amplifier with an n-channel reset transistor, (d) a p-channel based current mirror with an n-channel reset transistor. Pixel and output chain architectures are discussed, their operation is explained, simulations results are presented and measurements from a test chip are reported. (C) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.