Sony’s ultra-high-speed image sensor, “Pregius S,” to be released in November 2025
– 105 megapixels and up to 100 frames per second
– High-resolution imaging of large objects, shortening 3D inspection and measurement times
We bring you breaking news from an article published in CNET Japan.
Equipped with Sony’s latest sensor, “Pregius S”
“Pregius S” delivers “105 megapixels and high-speed output of up to 100 frames per second.”
“Pregius S” has been installed in the “IMX927” and commercialized for cutting-edge industries.
Boasting industry-first performance, sample shipments are scheduled to begin in mid-November 2025.
Achieving over 100 million pixels and 100 frames per second:
CMOS image sensors can be broadly divided into two types.
1. Rolling shutter method, which exposes and outputs light line-sequentially.
2. The global shutter method exposes and outputs the entire surface simultaneously.
Rolling shutter and global shutter methods:
1. With the rolling shutter method, images may become distorted when capturing high-speed objects.
2. With the global shutter method, the entire object is captured and output simultaneously.
Used in all types of factory automation: Global shutter method:
As factory automation progresses, demand for vision cameras capable of high-speed, high-quality image capture is increasing.
1. Sony’s rolling shutter method was adopted in iPhone smartphones.
2. Sony’s global shutter method is primarily targeted at the precision parts and industrial fields.
Sony’s global shutter sensor:
1. With high sensitivity and high saturation capacity, it targets a wide range of fields, including precision part recognition and foreign object inspection.
2. Advanced applications such as high-resolution image capture of large objects and 3D inspection are also expected.
Tracking ROI: A function that tracks and captures a region of interest (ROI), such as a barcode.
Motion Detection: This function detects moving objects and captures only the necessary portions, improving data processing efficiency and reducing power consumption.
Dual ADC (Analog Digital Converter): Simultaneously captures and combines high-gain and low-gain images to improve the visibility of components, etc.
Fast AE (Auto Exposure): This “Fast AE” function ensures that images are always captured at the optimal exposure time, even when lighting conditions or subject distances change.
Quad HDR (High Dynamic Range): Enables dynamic range imaging. Effective for capturing materials with different reflectivities, such as metal parts and rubber.
Quad Shutter Control: Shutter timing and exposure time can be individually set for each of four 2×2 pixel units.
Barcode Recognition:
Global shutter image sensors are capable of capturing distortion-free images of fast-moving barcodes, making them ideal for this field.
FPD Defect Inspection:
Inspects panel surfaces and wiring patterns for abnormalities and defects at flat panel display (FPD) manufacturing sites.
License Plate Recognition:
When covering multiple lanes and vehicle types, a global shutter image sensor with high shutter speed and readout speed is ideal.
Shape Recognition
Global shutter image sensors can capture distortion-free images of fast-moving objects.
This contributes to improved accuracy in identifying container types and reduced processing time.
Bridge Inspection
Bridge inspections are essential for maintaining bridges in good condition.
Global shutter technology excels at capturing distortion-free images even in unstable flight environments.