CMOS image sensor for automotive view cameras

Toshiba Corp. has begun shipping samples of its VGA, 1/4in CMOS image sensor for automotive view cameras. According to the company, the TCM5126GBA integrates a high dynamic range (HDR) function that reproduces high quality images of objects backlit by the sun and vehicle headlights. The product has a small chip-size package (CSP) combined with through-silicon via (TSV) technology that cuts the size by 30 percent against equivalent products and will contribute to the downsizing of view camera systems.

The sensor also incorporates a picture flip function that can flip output images horizontally and vertically, an on-screen display function that outputs preliminary-set parking guidelines together with the image, and a zoom function for use in rear view cameras in parking assist systems. The built-in timer function sustains output of images when the gear stick is shifted from reverse to forward, allowing drivers to see a continuous movie when reversing into a parking space.

The stand alone operation support (SAOS) function makes the sensor operate automatically when power is supplied without external MCUs, and will contribute to simplification of view camera systems.

The device features 4:3 aspect ratio, 5.6m pixel size and 60fps frame rate, added Toshiba.