CMOS image sensors are the revolutionary components credited for transforming image capturing technology. From DSLRs to mobile cameras, CMOS sensors (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductors) are now everywhere because of their high efficiency.
Unlike predecessor technology, CCD (Charged Couple Device), they require less power and read electric charges faster. Despite their structural similarities, the processing procedure is entirely different. Where memory CCD makes use of the row upon row process for data recording, rows of photodiodes are connected to individual amplifiers in CMOS sensors, which amplify the electric signal from the photodiodes.
CMOS sensors compliance with machine vision
Manufacturers of camera-enabled digital gadgets are emphasizing CMOS image sensor tests to improvise efficiency. Each CMOS sensor is made up of a photodiode and an amplifier. When photodiodes are exposed to light, they gather electrical charge, which is then converted to voltage, amplified in order to transmit as electrical signals. Consequently, we get features including better pixel density, higher resolution and low light sensitivity within the minimum possible size. Faster pixel reading of CMOS gives a higher frame rate that benefits machine vision systems with better image data analysis. Let’s have a look at the significant advantages of CMOS technology without confusing it with technical terms.
Advantages of employing CMOS sensor technology
- Cameras equipped with CMOS sensors occupy less space because of their fewer components.
- The power consumption of these sensors is significantly lower than CCD technology.
- CMOS sensors are capable of capturing images at high frame rates. Features like slow-mo and timelapse have become possible in smartphones because of this technology.
- The blooming issue has significantly decreased with CMOS.
- CMOS sensors-enabled cameras are highly sensitive to short-wave infrared radiation.
Analog IC Design engineers conducting CMOS Image Sensor Test
With the help of ATE integrated circuits, engineers can design complex as well as highly integrated solutions. Below are the requirements for conducting a CMOS image sensors test efficiently:-
- Solid fundamentals of analog CMOS circuit design
- Designing and analysis ability with complex loops of feedback
- In-depth knowledge of IC design
- Experience in interfacing with external and internal functions seamlessly
Understanding CMOS Working
CMOS sensors comprise P-type and N-type transistors in order to create logic functions. It enables logical devices to operate without requiring a pull-up resistor. MOSFETs n-type transistor is dedicated to the pull-down network. It lies between the power supply rail (low voltage) and output. The role of a P-type transistor is to create a pull-up network between high voltage power supply rail and output. It enables CMOS sensors to work at high speed with low power consumption.
CMOS Applications
A wide range of analog circuits utilize this technology that involves highly incorporated transceivers, data convertors and image sensors. Below is a list of IC designs that most frequently use CMOS image sensors:-
- Microprocessors
- Application-specific integrated circuits
- Computer memories
- Flash memories
Since the evolution in the smartphone industry, the ATE demand for CMOS image sensor tests has increased a lot. Thus, some companies are specifically dedicated to providing automated testing equipment for various manufacturers.
