Fujitsu Microelectronics America (FMA) today introduced the industry's smallest, low-power camera module, the MB86S02, built around its CIF-compliant CMOS image sensor.

Developed for use in cellular phones and PDAs, the MB86S02 camera module is based on Fujitsu's uniquely integrated device technology, which mounts the camera lens to an image sensor IC and a color processor integrated into a compact single chip. The module measures only 7.80mm x 6.98mm x 4.98mm, with a density of 0.27 cubic centimeters. It has the lowest power requirements of any CIF-compliant CMOS sensor, with a consumption of just 30mW at 15 frames/second.

CMOS image sensors have advanced significantly, and now are a key enabling technology for image communication services designed for use in the new generation of cellular phones and handheld devices. The camera module offers a smaller, lighter and lower-power solution for these applications, according to Keith Horn, vice president of marketing for FMA.

Main Specifications

Optical Size: 1/7-inch type
Number of Pixels: 373 (Horizontal) x 301 (Vertical)
Display Area: 357 (H) x 293 (V)
Pixel Size: 5.5 micrometers square
Color Filter: RGB primary colors
Power Supply Voltage: 2.6V to 3.0V (Typ. 2.8 V)
Power Consumption: 30mW (operation at 15 frames/second)
Clock Input Frequency: 9MHz
Serial Interface: I2C method
Output Type: YUV=4:2:2 (digital)
Additional Function: Auto Gain Control Function
    : Auto White Balance Function
    : Auto Flicker Cancel Function
    : Scan Direction Changeable Function
    : Gamma Adjustment Function
Camera Module: Size: 7.80mm x 6.98mm x 5.0mm
: F Value: 2.8
: Angle of Lens Picture: 55 degrees (Horizontal side)
: Structure of Lens: Plastic Single Lens

Fujitsu Microelectronics America, Inc., Tel: 800-866-8608 or visit the web site at http://www.fma.fujitsu.com

My first reaction after reading the press release for the MB86S02 low-power camera module was confusion because it described it being used for PDAs and cellular phones. After I read the whole description, I realized that it meant exactly that - a camera for a PDA or cell phone. These devices have only recently been released in Japan. For example, DoCoMo started selling the new phones in October for the greater metropolitan Tokyo area under the brand name FOMA, for Freedom of Mobile Multimedia Access. Because they transmit at speeds six to 40 times faster than current cell phones and use a radio spectrum set aside for the new service, they are considered the first third-generation handsets. Although the timing in the U.S. may be a little premature, Fujitsu is riding the beginning of what it hopes will be the next Japanese technological tsunami into the States.

The MB86S02 camera module has the lowest power requirements of any Common Interchange Format (352x288 pixels) or CIF-compliant CMOS sensor, with a consumption of just 30mW at 15 frames/second. The module also provides power-down and power-save functions, with only 25mW drawn in power-save mode.

Some of the competitive solutions require two or three discrete devices, which add size and weight. As the press release indicates this new module is ideal for new cell phones, PDAs and other handheld products.

The new MB86S02 camera module is available now at $42 each for samples. Fujitsu Microelectronics America (FMA) designs, markets and supports a comprehensive portfolio of advanced semiconductor and electronic devices.