CMOS camera modules aim for 3G handsets: News from Dialog Semiconductor

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Dialog Semiconductor has launched the first two products of a new family of standard CMOS image sensing modules. The DA3510 and DA3520 will enable high quality photo imaging and video capabilities to be embedded into next generation mobile phones and PDA products. Key features include the unique XDR (extended dynamic range) technology, ensuring clear images are captured under widely contrasting ambient light, and best of class performance in low light conditions.

"The availability of VGA resolution in a compact camera module positions our products at the high end of the quality scale.

They will allow manufacturers to develop handsets that can also double up as good quality still cameras, whereby the user can take high resolution pictures using the handset and transfer them to a computer or output device when returning to base", commented Roland Pudelko, CEO and President of Dialog Semiconductor.

The DA3510 is more than just an image sensor with a lens.

It is a full VGA (video graphics array) format digital camera module based on Dialog Semiconductor's proprietary colour-CMOS sensor technology.

The product comprises a VGA format sensor, dedicated image DSP device, customisable glass or plastic lens systems and a housing with a flexible connector.

Full VGA resolution enables high quality pictures and precision colour balance in the same size and for the same cost as other lower specified camera modules available on the market.

Dialog has also introduced the DA3520, for manufacturers requiring only an imaging module without DSP.

This product provides the same high quality image as the DA3510.

Both products are aimed at applications requiring high quality pictures using low power.

Key features that distinguish Dialog's technology are extended dynamic range (XDR), providing a response equivalent to human vision and film responses for the highest quality natural images plus a very small pixel size of 5.6 x 5.6um, providing better pictures in low light (minimum illumination of 2 lux).

Also featured is the high performance, low power CMOS active pixel sensor technology that is capable of producing CCD quality digital images in VGA format for video or still imaging of up to 30frame/s.

The DA3510 is a stand-alone camera system, requiring only a single supply (2.7 to 3.1V), clock and interface to control and transfer both still and motion pictures.

This provides an image processing solution ideally suited to systems where the host processor cannot accommodate extra tasks.

In a module size of just 10 x 10 x 8mm, including DSP, it supports pixel correction, provides a multiple image format and viewfinder support with a fixed focus lens system.

In addition it handles automatic exposure control, variable light level calibration and image rotation functions.

All the control features can be programmed and configured through a standard I2C compatible interface.

Image data is output via a synchronous serial or parallel CCIR656 compatible interface.

The DA3510 and DA3520 are available now for evaluation using a kit, which contains a detailed datasheet, CMOS camera module, interface card, PCI frame grabber card and PC software to control the module.

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