OmniVision Extends OmniBSI Portfolio with 3-Megapixel Image Sensor Targeting High Growth Smart Phone Market

By incorporating this technology, the OV3660 offers high performance imaging, including 720p high-definition (HD) video recording, in an ultra-compact 1/5-inch optical format, making it an ideal choice for entry-level and mainstream smart phones. “We continue to see a strong market shift in the feature phone and entry-level smart phone segments from 2- to 3-megapixel resolutions consistent with increasing consumer demand for quality and functionality,” said Charles Chong, product marketing manager for OmniVision.

Implementing OmniBSI technology at the 3-megapixel resolution allows us to fulfill end-user demands for excellent camera performance and HD video recording, and to facilitate easy migration from existing 2-megapixel camera designs from a manufacturing standpoint. We believe that OmniBSI technology is well suited for high-end smart phone applications, and that our offering of this technology at the 3-megapixel resolution can provide key benefits for participants in this rapidly growing market.” The OV3660 supports 720p HD video recording at 30 frames per second (FPS) with cropping and scaling, as well as 4:3 image capture for snapshots, allowing users to capture and share both video and still images. For still images, the sensor outputs standard compressed JPG images, allowing the OV3660 to be integrated into a broad range of hardware platforms.

The OV3660’s form factor permits direct insertion into an industry-standard 6.5 x 6.5 mm module, enabling a quick and easy upgrade from current 2-megapixel camera designs. The OV3660 offers automatic image control functions including exposure control, white balance, auto 50/60 Hz flicker detection, and black-level calibration. Additional features include color saturation, hue, gamma, edge enhancement, lens correction and noise cancellation. Camera controls are accessed over a standard serial camera control bus interface and RAW or YUV video data is output through a parallel output interface. The OV3660 is now sampling and is expected to enter mass production in the third quarter of 2011.