STMicroelectronics ST BrightSense CMOS global-shutter image sensors

STMicroelectronics has introduced a set of plug-and-play hardware kits, evaluation camera modules and software that ease development with its ST BrightSense global-shutter image sensors. The ecosystem lets developers of mass-market industrial and consumer applications provide enhanced camera performance. By sampling all pixels simultaneously, unlike a conventional rolling shutter, global-shutter sensors can capture images of fast-moving objects without distortion and significantly reduce power when coupled to a lighting system.

The global-shutter sensors implement advanced backside-illuminated pixel technology, providing high image sharpness to capture fine details such as in barcode reading. Their high sensitivity enhances low-light performance and permits fast image capture, enhancing responses such as obstacle avoidance in mobile robots and face recognition in personal electronics. The sensors’ advanced 3D-stacked construction allows a small die area, easing integration anywhere space is limited especially in the final optical module, while enriching the products with advanced on-chip image processing for auto-exposure, correction and calibration. Their MIPI-CSI-2 interface makes them suitable for embedded vision and edge AI devices.

The new offering from STMicroelectronics includes evaluation camera modules that integrate image sensor, lens holder, lens and plug-and-play flex connector to enable instant integration of the image sensors. The modules offer a selection of tiny form factors down to 5 mm², various lens options to suit different application requirements and a plug-and-play connector that allows easy swapping. A series of hardware kits helps developers integrate the sensors with various desktop and embedded computing platforms. Complementary software tools are available for free download on ST’s website, such as a PC-based GUI and Linux drivers that assist integration with processing platforms including STM32MP2 microprocessors.

The ST BrightSense global-shutter family currently comprises the VD55G0, VD55G1 and VD56G3 monochrome sensors with resolution from 0.38 to 1.5 MP, as well as the colour VD66GY with 1.5 MP. The sensors, along with their evaluation camera modules and development boards are in production now.