Sony® Launches the 8.4 MP CMOS STARVIS™ Imager IMX485 for Industrial Surveillance

Sony Semiconductor Solutions has launched a new image sensor for surveillance cameras, factory automation applications, and industrial environments. The IMX485 provides Sony’s STARVIS™ technology for excellent visibility in low light. It combines high sensitivity with high-speed, which makes the IMX485 a great solution in challenging environments for industrial inspection systems.

This new 1/1.2-type CMOS sensor is available from Sony’s decades-long partner and vision expert, FRAMOS®. It reaches a resolution of 8.4 Megapixel with a 2.9µm pixel pitch, and a high-speed frame rate of up to 90 fps at 10-bit depth. High sensitivity, low dark current, and no smear images are achieved through the adoption of R, G, and B primary color mosaic filters. The multiple HDR filter further increases the image quality.

Sibel Yorulmaz-Cokugur, FRAMOS’ sensor expert, says: “The new IMX485 is a “starlight class” low light performance 4K image sensor. It has a 2.9µm square pixel with super high conversion gain (SHCG) to achieve a much greater signal-to-noise-ratio. Compared to its little brother, the IMX327 with the same pixel technology, the IMX485 is in a larger format and consequently results in higher resolution and improved light efficiency.”

Multiple HDR features and readout modes increase the image quality and help the sensor adapt to individual industrial applications, thereby achieving the best possible output performance. Frame rates at up to 90 fps at 10-bit at full resolution speed up the automation and inspection processes with exceptional image results. The sensor supports CSI-2 with 2 / 4 / 8 or 4 lane x 2 serial data output per channel.

Evaluation samples are available immediately, and mass production will begin in late 2019. The industry and product experts at FRAMOS are available to support customers with the integration of these new sensors into their applications and projects. In addition, FRAMOS provides a broad range of support services for development, customization, and sensor logistics.