Sony has announced a new global shutter image sensor, the IMX927, which can be used for industrial applications, boasting an impressive 105-megapixel resolution and the ability to capture images at a high speed of 100 frames per second (at 10-bit output).
The push for more advanced factory automation has created a demand for cameras that can inspect various objects with both high speed and exceptional image quality. Sony's new IMX927 sensor is designed to meet this need.
It features a unique back-illuminated structure that allows for high-definition imaging with very low noise, even with its massive pixel count. By combining this design with Sony's advanced readout technology and next-generation high-speed interfaces, the sensor can achieve a rapid data transfer speed of 100 gigabits per second (Gbps).
This ability to quickly process large amounts of data is critical. It enables higher inspection accuracy and shorter inspection times for advanced techniques like Automated Optical Inspection (AOI) and 3D-AOI, which are used to check everything from electronics to large displays.
A flexible lineup for industry
The IMX927 is the flagship model in a new 16-product series that offers options ranging from 12 to 105 megapixels. The IMX927 and its close counterpart, the IMX937, represent the highest resolution models in the lineup.
This wide range allows professionals to select the perfect sensor resolution for a specific inspection task and environment, enabling them to build flexible and scalable camera systems.
Key Technological Highlights:
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High Sensitivity and Dynamic Range: Despite its small 2.74 µm pixels, the sensor uses Sony’s proprietary technology, including their Pregius S global shutter, to offer high sensitivity. This is vital for detailed inspection in areas like semiconductor manufacturing and precision equipment.
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Next-Gen Interface Compatibility: The sensors are compatible with cutting-edge, high-speed camera interfaces such as CoaXPress-over-Fiber (CXPoF) and 100GigE, ensuring fast, stable, and long-range data transmission without image degradation.
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New Package Design: The entire series uses a newly developed ceramic package with standardised, pin-compatible connectors. This feature simplifies the process of designing and assembling cameras, making sensor replacement easier and speeding up manufacturing compared to older mounting technologies.
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Advanced Imaging Functions: The sensor includes a 1-shot High Dynamic Range (HDR) function to clearly capture objects with varying materials and reflectivities (like metal and rubber) without sacrificing speed or resolution. It also supports multiple binning modes to improve sensitivity and speed when needed.
Although this sensor is being touted for 'industrial use', no doubt this technology could filter down to consumer cameras, as well as one of the largest camera markets in the world – the automotive industry – where 90% of new cars use multiple sensors (cameras) for Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS).
Sony leads the way
Sony has also recently announced their 'multi-stacked' sensor technology which will promise to deliver significant gains in dynamic range, sensitivity, noise performance, efficiency, and readout speed.
Sony's position as an innovation leader in sensors is a direct result of its dominant market share in the image sensor industry, which exceeds 50%. The company acts as the core technological supplier across diverse sectors, including smartphones, security systems, and high-end industrial cameras.
In fact, many highly-regarded camera manufacturers, such as Nikon, Fujifilm, and Hasselblad, rely on Sony-made sensors. Effectively, Sony's technology functions as the engine powering a vast majority of the best cameras available today.
You can read more about the new 105MP sensor on the Sony website.