ST introduces new image sensors for industrial automation, security and retail applications

STMicroelectronics, a global semiconductor leader serving customers across the spectrum of electronics applications, introduces a new family of 5MP CMOS image sensors: VD1943, VB1943, VD5943, and VB5943. These advanced ST BrightSense sensors are designed to accelerate the development of innovative vision applications across industries, including advanced industrial automation with enhanced machine and robotic vision, next-generation security, including biometric identification and traffic management, and smart retail applications such as inventory management and automated checkout. A longtime leader in optical sensing technology for consumer applications, ST continues to expand its offering for new applications with its industry-leading design, 3D stacking expertise and high-volume manufacturing for market-leading performance.

Dual global and rolling shutter modes
The sensors provide hybrid global and rolling shutter modes, allowing developers to optimize image capture for specific application requirements. This functionality ensures motion-artifact-free video capture (global shutter) and low-noise, high-detail imaging (rolling shutter), making it ideal for high-speed object tracking and automated manufacturing processes.

Compact design with advanced pixel technology
Using 2.25 µm pixel technology and advanced 3D stacking, the sensors deliver high image quality in a smaller footprint. The die size is 5.76 mm by 4.46 mm, with a package size of 10.3 mm by 8.9 mm, and an industry-leading 73%-pixel array-to-die surface ratio. This compact design enables integration into space-constrained embedded vision systems without compromising performance.

On-chip RGB-IR separation
The RGB-IR variants of the sensors feature on-chip RGB-IR separation, eliminating the need for additional components and simplifying system design. This capability supports multiple output patterns, including 5MP RGB-NIR 4×4, 5MP RGB Bayer, 1.27MP NIR subsampling, and 5MP NIR smart upscale, with independent exposure times and instant output pattern switching. This integration reduces costs while maintaining full 5MP resolution for both color and infrared imaging.

Enhanced imaging performance
The sensors incorporate backside illumination (BSI) and capacitive deep trench isolation (CDTI) pixel technologies to enhance sensitivity and sharpness, particularly in low lighting conditions. Single-frame on-chip HDR improves detail visibility across bright and dark areas. These features enable high-quality imaging in challenging environments and support advanced machine vision and edge AI applications.