TowerJazz's CMOS sensor process powers Cypress' new global shutter image sensor

MIGDAL HAEMEK, ISRAEL & SAN JOSE, USA: TowerJazz and Cypress Semiconductor Corp. announced that TowerJazz’s 0.18-micron CMOS image sensor (CIS) process is being used to power Cypress’ new 25-megapixel industrial high-sensitivity, high-speed CMOS image sensor targeted for the high-end machine vision market.

The VITA 25K sensor, sampling now, provides the market’s highest throughput for a device with a unique pipelined and triggered global shutter architecture. According to a report by Roy Szweda, RNR Associates, the forecast for image sensors used in the industrial market is likely to reach close to $840 million by 2014.

The VITA 25K sensor has 32 10-bit digital Low Voltage Differential Signaling (LVDS) outputs that enable transfer of image data over a standard industry protocol at low power and low noise.

Each channel runs at a 620 Mbps, which results in a high frame rate of 53 frames-per-second (fps) at full resolution for undistorted images and fast readout. Manufactured using TowerJazz’s CIS process, the sensor is ideal for high-end machine vision applications, such as inspection machines; biometric inspection, such as next-generation palm print readers; and intelligent traffic systems.

"This product joins a series of successful projects we have collaborated on with TowerJazz using their leading CIS process technology," said Georges Hiltrop, General Manager, Image Sensor Business Unit, Cypress. "We are able to continue bringing to market faster and higher sensitivity CMOS image sensors due to our design expertise and patented IP in custom image sensors combined with TowerJazz’s high performance CIS process capabilities."

"TowerJazz and Cypress have collaborated on CIS projects for more than 10 years, enabling a wide portfolio of products for industrial imaging, high-end cameras, barcode, medical and dental imaging," said Dr. Avi Strum, Vice President and General Manager, Specialty Group, TowerJazz. "The long cooperation between our teams is becoming stronger as we continue to align on innovative and market changing projects and products with a clear advantage in the market."

Samples of the VITA 25K image sensor are currently available, with production devices expected in the first half of 2011.