OmniVision today announced OV5647 a new 1/4-inch, 5-megapixel RAW CMOS image sensor based on its 1.4-micron OmniBSI backside illumination (BSI) technology. OmniVision's 1.4-micron OmniBSI pixel delivers best-in-class low light sensitivity (680-mV/lux-sec), low profile z-height and a small footprint, making it ideal for the ultra-compact camera modules used in mobile phones and notebooks. The superior pixel performance of the OV5647 enables 720p HD video at 60 frames per second (fps) and 1080p HD video at 30 fps.

Because BSI technology uses a technique that inverts the sensor to collect light from the backside, it offers the most direct path for light to strike the pixel. This results in a greatly improved fill factor, higher quantum efficiency and significantly reduced cross-talk, which translates into greater sensitivity and better color reproduction, compared to front side illumination (FSI) image sensors.

The sensor supports full-frame, windowed or binned 10-bit images in RAW RGB format with complete user control over formatting and output data transfer. It offers all required automatic image control functions, including automatic exposure control, automatic white balance, automatic band filter, automatic 50/60-Hz luminance detection, and automatic black level calibration. The OV5647 is sampling now and will enter mass production in July 2010.
[Via PR Newswire]