Samsung Demoes 5MP SoC Image Sensor

Following the introduction of the two new 1GHz application processors based on ARM's CORTEX-A8 solution on Monday, Samsung has announced the S5K4EA, a 5-megapixel system-on-chip image sensor, its newest quarter-inch optical format. Designed mainly for smartphones and high-end handsets, the S5K4EA imager brings together a CMOS image sensor and an image signal processor.

“Mobile phones today allow us to stay in contact with friends and family not only by voice and text but also with high resolution images,” said Dr. Lee Yun Tae, senior vice president, image development team, System LSI Division, Samsung Electronics. “To meet the current demand for slimmer, sleeker mobile phones with digital still camera capabilities, Samsung brings 1.4-micron (um) pixel technology to this state-of-the-art imager solution.”

The fast frame capture backed up by the anti-shaking control feature of the S5K4EA produces sharper pictures, drastically reducing the blur caused by unsteady hands. S5K4EA is capable of processing 1080p images at a speed of 30 fps, while the adaptive dynamic range expansion feature is used to brighten dark areas in pictures and maximize their clarity.

In order to keep up with the market trend, Samsung has developed an ultra-sensitive 1.4um pixel size using its advanced pixel shrinking technology. Samsung Enhanced Energy Steering (SEES), the company's proprietary technology, allows more light to be integrated into the pixel's structure for high-resolution pictures. Moreover, the image performance is also enhanced through noise removal logic.

The new Samsung image sensor also has Xenon flash, auto focus and an electronic or mechanical shutter. To make picture browsing even faster the new imager has JPEG with thumbnail output. For designers, the S5K4EA comes with a YUV output interface over MIPI2 or parallel. The imager will be available in an 8.5x8.5x6mm auto focus, mass production being scheduled for the first quarter of 2010.

The mobile device sales volume will rise in the following years according to a market research conducted by Techno Systems Research. Camera phones are expected to grow from 750 million units sold in 2009 to 1.23 billion units in 2013, while the devices equipped with 5MP and higher resolution cameras are forecast to have a 61 percent annual growth rate, going from an estimate of 98 million units sold in 2009 to 660 million units in 2013.