ON Semiconductor is pleased to be part of the new L16 digital camera. This groundbreaking device uses many products from the ON Semiconductor portfolio including Autofocus controllers, Back Side Illumination CMOS sensors, and various power supply regulation devices. Recent advancements in image sensors, DSP processors and optics now allow manufacture of unique camera configurations such as the L16.
It is well known in the Imaging industry that larger format sensors produce better quality images. Larger sensors collect more photons, allowing the capture of an image with lower noise and better quality. Unfortunately, larger sensors require bigger lens optics, can be cumbersome to carry and delicate.
The typical (1/3.2”) smartphone sensor is a fraction the size of a professional 35mm format DSLR camera. Process advancements and pixel development has narrowed the gap between them, but there is no substitute for a large light collection area. ON Semiconductor offers a wide variety of optical formats, constantly improving the pixel efficiency and capture speeds.
The length of the lens is directly proportional to the size of the sensor and the desired zoom factor. Use of a larger sensor and use of a lens with more zoom requires a much longer lens. This is most obvious when comparing the size of a smartphone to a professional DSLR.
So, how does one achieve the performance of a professional DSLR in the size approaching a smartphone? By breaking up a large sensor into an array of smaller sensors. The sum of the area being equal means the light collection and performance can be maintained. Using smaller sensors means the size of the optics can be reduced greatly.
We are all familiar with the latest smartphone devices, utilizing 2 cameras to add zoom and depth functionality. The Light L16 takes this to the next level. With 16 sensors, the L16 can capture the same amount of light as a large professional DSLR, while keeping the length of the lens similar to a typical smart phone. Through close collaboration with Light, ON Semiconductor was able to supply specially customized sensor devices, based on its 1/3.2-inch format AR1335 CMOS image sensor.
Seeing is believing. Here are a few of the amazing images captured from the L16. Please visit the Light.co website for full resolution images. We commend the Light team as they bring the best of image processing algorithms combined with the latest advancements in image sensor and optics technology to create a truly differentiating product.