Toshiba creates 20-megapixel sensor for compact cameras
updated 05:14 am EST, Thu December 27, 2012
Set to begin mass production in August 2013
Toshiba has shown off a new backlit 20-megapixel sensor aimed at compact cameras, a month after revealing a 13-megapixel CMOS sensor for smartphones. The TCM5115CL BSI CMOS sensor, in the 1 /2.3-inch form factor, gives a 4-megapixel upgrade to the 16-megapixel glass ceiling of compact cameras, and is claimed by the company to have the highest resolution in the optical format in the industry.
To combat the issues of ever-decreasing pixel sizes, Toshiba has improved the full well capacity, the maximum amount of charge a pixel can hold, by 15% compared to its previous generation 16-megapixel sensor. The sensor is capable of recording video using its entire 20-megapixel resolution at 30fps, a 1080p video at 60fps, and a 100fps video at a 720p resolution.
Toshiba is preparing to offer manufacturers samples of the sensor by the end of January, and expects to start mass producing it in August 2013.
