STMicroelectronics' Image Signal Processor Features Dual Camera Support

(Product News, 9 Jun 2008)

STMicroelectronics (ST) has developed a stand-alone Image Signal Processor with dual-camera support that brings DSC-like performance to mobile imaging applications. Capable of controlling the entire imaging subsystem in a mobile phone, ST's newest digital image processor, the STv0986, supports a wide range of camera modules including SMIA-compatible (Standard Mobile Imaging Architecture) sensors with up to 5-megapixel resolution.

The STv0986 mobile imaging processor implements a fully-featured image correction chain (from noise reduction to smooth digital zoom) and includes a dedicated hardware JPEG encoder with programmable quantization tables and compression factors. The advanced processing algorithms enable the STv0986 to deliver images of exceptional quality. It supports special image-orientation effects such us mirroring, flip and rotation, as well as color features including sepia (brown-shade), and black and white.

The STv0986 supports continuous video streaming rates of up to 20 (12.5) frames per second at 3 (5) mega-pixel resolution, making the implementation of multi-shot, best picture and anticipation acquisition modes very straightforward. In the anticipation mode, the camera takes snapshots before and after the shutter button is pressed, allowing the user to select their preferred shot from a sequence of pictures.

The STv0986's unique twin-video-processing pipe architecture eliminates "shutter" delay to ensure that the still image captured matches the current viewfinder frame—what you see is what you get. The dual-pipeline architecture also delivers a true full-frame rate camcorder mode with simultaneous local viewfinder support and video capture through an optional 4x smooth digital true zoom.

The advanced autofocus (AF) control loop enables the STV0986 to provide still and video autofocus with a very fast lock time of 0.6s. The AF system is able to control various actuator technologies including voice-coil, piezo and stepper motors. The STv0986 provides support for image stabilization through a combination of automatic light-sensitivity control (Auto-ISO control) and best-picture identification. ST also offers full system support for LED or Xenon flash solutions.

In addition to mobile phones, the STv0986 is suitable for use in PDAs, mobile games, security cameras and video phones.

Click here for more information on STMicroelectronics' STv0986 mobile imaging processor

Click here for more information on STMicroelectronics


RELATED ARTICLES

STMicroelectronics and Mobileye Deliver Second-generation SoC for Driver Assistance Systems

NFC-enabled Handsets: Now Everything's Tap-n-Go

Multimedia Chip Integrates Innovative Graphics Technology

Fully Integrated NFC SoC for Contactless Communications

STMicroelectronics and NXP Merge Wireless Businesses

STMicroelectronics Develops Integrated Power Management Chip for Automotive Multimedia Networking

STMicroelectronics' Automotive-Grade Application Processor Powers New Range of Navigation Products from Garmin

Integrated Bluetooth/FM Transceiver Manufactured on 65nm

STMicroelectronics Releases Latest 8-bit Microcontroller Platform