OmniVision Technologies, Inc., a leading developer of advanced digital imaging solutions, today introduced the OV6948, one of the world’s smallest commercially available image sensors. Initially developed for small-outer-diameter medical endoscopes and catheters, the OV6948 can be designed into a wide range of applications, including dental, veterinary, IoT, industrial, wearable and forensic devices. The OV6948 leverages OmniVision’s proven OmniBSI+™ pixel technology to deliver best-in-class image quality and low-light performance in a package that measures just 0.575 mm × 0.575 mm.
Industry analysts expect the demand for minimally invasive medical procedures enabled by endoscopy to grow rapidly, driven by multiple socioeconomic factors such as increasing health care expenses, an aging population and the rise of the middle class in the developing world. Additionally, analysts suggest that growing concerns about cross-contamination caused by reusable endoscopes is driving the need for cost-effective, single-use endoscope- and catheter-based solutions.
“Ultra-small image sensors can offer distinct advantages to endoscopes used in minimally invasive procedures. For example, in an endoscope application, the OV6948 can either enable design of a very-small-outer-diameter scope or provide more space for working channels within a larger-diameter scope,” said Tehzeeb Gunja, senior product marketing and business development manager at OmniVision. “While the OV6948 was designed to bring exceptional imaging capabilities to the most compact and demanding medical applications, the sensor’s outstanding performance and small footprint make it a viable imaging solution for a much wider range of markets and applications.”
The high-resolution, minute-die-size OV6948 offers excellent image quality in terms of color fidelity, sharpness and low noise. Its excellent low-light sensitivity requires minimal illumination, and its low power consumption results in less heat generated at the distal tip of the endoscope, reducing patient discomfort and thus permitting longer-duration procedures.
Additional features include:
1/36-inch optical format
200 × 200 pixel capture at 30 frames per second (FPS)
High sensitivity: 1000 mV/lux-sec
Analog data output with the ability to transmit up to 4 meters with minimal signal noise
Minimum package size (4 pads total) for easy integration
The OV6948 image sensor will be showcased at OmniVision’s booth 2162 at MD&M East in New York. The OV6948 is currently sampling and is expected to start mass production in the second quarter of 2018.
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