8Mpixel cameras enhance Raspberry Pi applications

The v2 cameras have the same video capability as the original cameras supporting 1080p30, 720p60 and 640x480p90 video, and link to the Raspberry Pi board through a dedicated CSi interface.

The NoIR camera v2 has a No InfraRed (NoIR) filter on the lens which makes it the perfect option for infrared photography and taking pictures in lowlight environments.

The new v2 cameras are backwards compatible with all Raspberry Pi boards and have the same footprint and weight as the previous 5MP cameras. The Raspberry Pi Camera v2 and Raspberry Pi NoIR Camera v2 are available at the same $25 price through element14.

The camera modules tiny size (25mm x 35mm x9mm) enables them to feature at the centre of some of the most eye-catching projects, including sending weather balloons into the stratosphere. The new cameras are ideal for applications including low-light photography (NoIR Camera), drones, CCTV, weather stations, school projects and more.

Claire Doyle, Global Head of Raspberry Pi at element14 commented: “The camera modules have been two of our most popular accessories and the upgraded versions will let users capture higher quality images in both day and low-light settings. Whether it’s for CCTV, home automation, weather stations, drones or even sending into space, we’re looking forward to seeing the photographs and videos from the next generation of Raspberry Pi cameras.”

To highlight the capability of the new v2 cameras element14 is launching a social media ‘top 5 photos & videos’ competition, inviting people to submit their best photo or video for their chance to win.