OmniVision Announces 12.7-Megapixel OmniBSI-2 Image Sensor for High-End Smartphones and Tablets

The 1/3.2-inch OV12830 utilizes the OmniBSI-2 pixel architecture to capture 1080p high definition video at 60 frames per second, and full resolution 12-megapixel high-speed photography at 24 FPS to dramatically reduce shutter lag.

We are bringing this sensor to market at a time when next-generation smartphone and tablet cameras are moving beyond the 8-megapixel threshold, said Devang Patel, senior product marketing manager at OmniVision. The OV12830 marks OmniVision’s highest resolution 1/3.2-inch optical format offering for mobile devices to date, and fits into the industry-standard module size of 8.5 x 8.5 mm. This combination allows manufacturers to design mobile devices with greatly improved video recording capabilities within the same space constraints required by current 8-megapixel camera modules.

Utilizing advanced 1.1-micron OmniBSI-2 pixel architecture, the OV12830 supports an active array of 4,224 x 3,000 pixels (12-megapixel) operating at 24 FPS, and 4,224 x 2,376 pixels (10-megapixel in a 16:9 aspect ratio) at 30 FPS, minimizing shutter lag from shot-to-shot. An on-chip RAW scaler allows the sensor to record video at 30 FPS while maintaining full field of view. Additionally, the OV12830 is capable of capturing full 1080p HD video with increased sensitivity for low-light recording, and at 60 FPS with additional pixels for EIS. The sensor provides alternate row output from full-resolution at two different exposures, enabling high-dynamic range still or video recording.

The OV12830 comes in die format with industry standard 4-lane MIPI interface connectivity. It is currently available for sampling, and is expected to enter volume production in the fourth quarter of 2012.