Planet 82 Announces SMPD Image Sensor
A New Light for Low-Light Photo's and Video
At the Consumer Electronics Show this year the company Planet 82 showcased their new SMPD image sensor. The VGA-color image sensor is a highly sensitive image sensor that claims to be 2,000 times lighter sensitive than the CMOS and CCD sensors of today. In addition to being substantially more light-sensitive, the sensor is also 50% smaller and is made considerably cheaper than traditional sensors.
So what does this mean for you?
If the SMPD sensor is adopted by camera and camcorder manufacturers it could mean less expensive cameras and camcorders that are able to take much better pictures in low-light situations without the help of a flash or other external light source. The SMPD sensor isn't just huge news for cameras and camcorders; it can also be used in mobile phones, surveillance cameras, and nigh-vision self-parking vehicles.
Chief technology officer for Planet 82, the company that developed the SMPD chip described the sensor by saying "By replacing flash with the SMPD's slim design, manufacturers can produce next-generation electronics that offer higher image quality, energy-efficiency, and cost-savings regardless of light conditions and without the distortion or battery drain of a flash."
The SMPD sensor is able to react to photons with levels as low as 1lux, where as CMOS and CCD technologies need much more. SMPD actually stands for Single Carrier Modulation Photo Detector, the technology was created and is managed by the Korean based company Planet 82. Planet 82 is currently testing the SMPD chip on mobile phones, digital still cameras, self-parking cars, and closed-circuit televisions.
At CES the company demonstrated the chip in a digital camcorder as well as a self-parking car in complete darkness. The SMPD sensor was able to capture images rather well without any flash or light present.
Currently the company hasn't vocalized any partnerships with electronics manufacturers, but has stated that they are working on developing a partnership to mass-produce the ship. Look for the SMPD chip to be included in a electronic near you in the near future.
Published by Ann Mapleridge
Ann is tech geek, craft beer lover, and avid traveler. View profile
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1 Comments
Post a CommentTo bad this chip has never made it to the public sector. Most of Planet82 Website has disappeared pertaining to the chip and there is yet to be any release of this tech to the public. What gives.