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Home » Sony ISX038: Dual-Output CMOS Sensor Redefines Vehicle Camera Technology

Sony ISX038: Dual-Output CMOS Sensor Redefines Vehicle Camera Technology

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Sony has unveiled its latest innovation in automotive imaging technology: the ISX038 CMOS image sensor. This groundbreaking device is set to transform the landscape of vehicle cameras by offering dual-system outputs of RAW and YUV images. With its launch, Sony aims to address the evolving needs of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) and autonomous driving technologies.

The ISX038 sensor stands out with its ability to simultaneously output RAW and YUV images through two independent systems. This dual functionality is made possible by a custom-built Image Signal Processor (ISP) integrated into the sensor. The RAW output caters to ADAS and autonomous driving systems, providing crucial data for detecting and recognizing the vehicle’s surroundings. Meanwhile, the YUV output serves in-car devices such as dash cams and AR cameras, offering versatility in a single package.

Boasting a 1/1.7-inch size and approximately 8.39 million pixels, the ISX038 packs impressive specs into a compact form factor. The sensor features 2.1 μm pixels, enabling a dynamic range of up to 130 dB in HDR mode. Even with anti-LED flicker mode activated, it maintains a robust 106 dB dynamic range, surpassing the 100 dB threshold required for reliable object detection across various lighting conditions.

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The ISX038 outputs video at 30 fps with a resolution of 3,857 × 2,177 pixels, providing ample detail for driver-assistance systems to detect obstacles and initiate timely responses. Its compatibility with the popular Mobileye EyeQ 6 system-on-a-chip ensures seamless integration with existing automotive platforms used by manufacturers like Porsche.

By combining multiple functions into a single sensor, the ISX038 offers a more compact, cost-effective, and energy-efficient solution compared to using separate cameras or external ISPs. This consolidation of features is particularly valuable in the automotive industry, where space and power efficiency are paramount.

Sony has incorporated LED flicker reduction technology into the ISX038, ensuring stable and clear images even during HDR shooting. This feature is crucial for maintaining consistent image quality across various lighting scenarios, from bright daylight to twilight conditions.

Priced at approximately 15,000 yen (~$100), the ISX038 is scheduled to ship this month. Its competitive pricing and advanced features position it as a game-changer in the automotive imaging market. The sensor’s compatibility with existing Sony models used by automakers facilitates a smooth transition for manufacturers looking to upgrade their vehicle camera systems.

More sophisticated ADAS and autonomous capabilities, the ISX038 sensor is poised to play a pivotal role. Its dual-output functionality and advanced features make it a versatile solution for the next generation of smart vehicles. With this launch, Sony has clearly signaled its intent to remain at the forefront of automotive imaging technology.

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