The New CMOS Enhancements Boost the Image of Aptina Imaging

Aptina Imaging’s recent advancements in its CMOS image sensor technology portfolio will be combined into a variety of new products for the mobile phone, high performance, surveillance and automotive markets.

 

In March, Aptina was created as a separate division of Micron Technology (News - Alert).

 

To meet the demands of the market, Aptina’s focus on imaging expertise provides a valuable backdrop to the technology the company is working on. The company is constantly on the lookout to improve its technology,and it now has the ability to make higher resolution image sensors in smaller form factors, with which the user can capture high quality images from any device anywhere.

 

Micron Imaging achieved key milestones in CMOS image sensors including developing the world’s first 2.2-micron pixel architecture before it became Aptina. Micron now has designs in one of every three camera phones on the market. The company also provides high-definition capabilities to digital still cameras and video cameras like those demonstrated in the super high-definition projects for NHK (Japan Broadcasting Corporation).

 

To cater to the demand for higher resolution in consumer devices ranging from high-end mobile phones to point-and-shoot cameras and personal media video recorders, the company has been also working on shrinking pixels. In March, the company announced 1.4-micron pixel technology, which provides the small form factor demanded by small devices. By focusing on the color filter array, the light guide and the photodiode, Aptina’s 1.4-micron pixel technology uses a proprietary process that optimizes the amount of light being funneled into the pixel’s most sensitive area.

 

Aptina has considerably improved the 1.75-micron pixel performance by applying the 1.4-micron pixel’s optimized technology to its 1.75-micron pixel. Offering an overall increased level of sensitivity of 2X (News - Alert), optical 3-D simulations reveal an increase in light collection and reduced optical crosstalk.

 

“The results we have seen with our new 1.4-micron pixel technology have inspired us to integrate these innovations into our 1.75-micron pixel products going forward,” said Terry Gilton, vice president of technology at Aptina. “This decision says a great deal about the advancements we have made in optimizing the pixel optical path. Innovation is the key to the future of imaging. We are exploring Backside Illumination in at least three forms and several variations on Frontside Illumination to create products that meet our customer’s needs today and moving forward.”