Sony develops world’s first multi-layer image sensor for smartphones

Sony has developed the world’s first multilayer CMOS sensor technology. While photodiodes and pixel transistors in conventional sensors are placed on the same substrate, new technology allows them to be separated and placed on different layers stacked on top of each other. This should almost double the saturation signal level, expand the dynamic range and reduce noise, the company says.

A conventional CMOS sensor consists of back-illuminated pixels mounted on a chip. Inside the pixel chip are photodiodes on one layer for converting light into electrical signals and pixel transistors for driving the signals. Raising the saturation signal level within the form factor constraints plays an important role in achieving high quality images with a wide dynamic range.

Since pixel transistors occupy a separate layer without photodiodes thanks to the new arrangement, their size can be increased. This in turn can reduce image noise when shooting in low light conditions and at night. Sony has presented only technology so far, so it’s still a long way to a finished working sensor. The first sensors with a dual-layer layout, presumably, will receive the manufacturer’s mirrorless cameras, although the company sees their use in smartphone cameras.

You may also like

South Korea’s billing bills
World
Flora

South Korea’s billing bills

A bill was approved yesterday, Wednesday, by South Korea, which prohibits the use of mobile phones in the classrooms, as

Waking Kit transferred 750 BTC to Binance
Top News
David

Waking Kit transferred 750 BTC to Binance

Against the background of correction, large holders of bitcoin and Ethereum demonstrate conflicting strategies. Some fix profit, others buy on

Bitcoin price analysis
Top News
David

Bitcoin price analysis

The price of bitcoin (BTC) is faced with difficulties due to sales pressure. During the week, BTC decreased by 3%.