Samsung today announced its new 12 Megapixel (Mp) CMOS imager using advanced 1.12 micron pixel technology, as well as its new 1/3.2-inch 8 Megapixel (Mp) CMOS imager, S5K3H2.

New 12 Megapixel (Mp) CMOS imager - S5K3L1

Based on the back side illuminated (BSI) pixel architecture, the 1/3.2-inch imager promises to offer clear images in low light environments and is optimized for premium feature and smart phones.

The S5K3L1 supports 12Mp full resolution images at 30 frames per second (fps) and 1080p full HD video at 60fps, as well as 720p at 90fps and VGA resolution images at 120fps for slow motion playback function in mobile phones. The new image sensor also includes an on-chip pixel correction feature, compensating color and luminance response variations to address image distortion.

In addition, the 12Mp imager offers an optional RGB-white color filter array, which delivers sensitivity while reducing noise, resulting in a 30 percent brighter image over that of a conventional RGB color filter array. The RGB-white filter feature works in conjunction with a complimentary logic chip (S5C73L1), which converts RGB-White pattern to RGB Bayer for back-end Bayer ISP compatibility. The logic chip also provides features such as lens shading correction, image down scaling, noise reduction and enhanced modulation transfer function to reproduce fine details.

Samsung's S5K3L1 imager is designed to address an 8.5mm x 8.5mm auto focus camera module with a height dimension of 6.0mm for slim mobile phones and small form factor applications.

Samples of the 12Mp imager are available now with mass production scheduled in the third quarter of this year, Samsung said.

8 Megapixel CMOS Imager - S5K3H2

Samsung's new 1/3.2-inch 8 Megapixel (Mp) CMOS imager, the S5K3H2, utilizes Samsung?s 1.4 micron (um) back side illuminated (BSI) pixel technology.

The 8Mp imager promises to provide high image quality on par with point-and-shoot cameras, supporting up to 15 frames per second (fps) at full resolution and 1080p full HD video image up to 30fps. It also offers video recording of 720p at 60fps and VGA resolution images at 120fps for slow motion playback function all on a mobile phone.

Based on Samsung's BSI low power process technology, the S5K3H2 is able to operate on 1.2 voltage levels enabling longer battery life for high-end mobile and smartphones.

In addition, as the slim form factor fits in an 8.5mm x 8.5mm auto focus camera module with a height dimension of 6.0mm, the S5K3H2 gives design engineers a great deal of freedom in designing camera modules suitable for slim mobile handsets and small form factor applications.

Samsung's 8Mp S5K3H2 is sampling now and is scheduled for mass production in the second quarter of this year.