Introduction

OmniVision Technologies launched the OV7670 CameraChip, a 1/6-inch VGA CMOS. With a pixel size reduced from 4.2 microns to 3.6 microns, the OV7670 uses a smaller optical format than its predecessor, the OV7660, which allows for a significant reduction in module height. "OmniVision's ability to keep driving down pixel size and improving image quality allows module makers to continue shrinking camera module sizes and helps handset makers develop smaller and more sophisticated devices," said Jess Lee, OmniVision's Director of Product Marketing. "With the OV7670 sensor's small footprint, high image quality and new LCD scaler feature, we believe OmniVision is well positioned to meet these needs."
1.3 Megapixel image sensor
The OV7670's LCD scaler, a new feature recently launched with the 1.3 megapixel OV9655 image sensor, allows handset makers to scale images to the exact size of LCD screens, eliminating the need for a separate backend DSP. The OV7670 employs OmniVision's proprietary OmniPixel sensor architecture, which significantly increases signal-to-noise ratio and delivers exceptional low-light performance. The OV7670 comes in a lead-free package and is available now in volume production quantities.
SCCB interface
The low-voltage OV7670 image sensor provides the full functionality of a single-chip VGA camera and image processor in a small footprint package (3.8mm x 4.2mm), which allows for a camera module size as small as 6mm x 6mm x 4.5mm. It provides full-frame, sub-sampled or windowed 8-bit images in a wide range of formats controlled through a serial camera control bus (SCCB) interface. All required image processing functions including exposure control, gamma, white balance, color saturation, hue control, white pixel canceling and noise canceling are programmable through the SCCB interface.
About OmniVision
OmniVision Technologies designs and markets high-performance semiconductor image sensors. Its OmniPixel and CameraChip products are highly integrated single-chip CMOS image sensors for mass-market consumer and commercial applications such as mobile phones, digital still cameras, security and surveillance systems, interactive video games, PCs and automotive imaging systems.