Atsugi, Japan — Sony Semiconductor Solutions Corporation today announced the upcoming release of IMX585, a 1/1.2-type 4K-resolution CMOS image sensor for security cameras, which delivers approximately 8 times the dynamic range of conventional model^*1 in a single exposure.

The new product uses Sony’s proprietary “STARVIS™ 2” technology, which delivers high sensitivity and high dynamic range (HDR) using back-illuminated pixel technology specially designed for security cameras, resulting in an 88 dB dynamic range, approximately 8 times that of conventional 1/1.2-type 4K-resolution image sensor^*1 in a single exposure. It also increases the sensitivity in the near infrared range by approximately 1.7 times^*2 compared to conventional model.^*1

The new sensor ensures high-quality image capture regardless of the environment or time of day. This, when integrated with the AI image processing in its camera system, delivers high-precision recognition, thereby contributing to a safer, more secure society.

*1:Compared to Sony’s “IMX485” 1/1.2-type 8.42-effective-megapixel, 4K-resolution CMOS image sensor.
*2: When capturing light at a wavelength of 850 nm.

IMX585 CMOS image sensor

*3:Based on image sensor effective pixel specification method.

Security cameras must provide high-precision recognition in dark locations and nighttime situations. Sony has employed its proprietary “STARVIS” back-illuminated pixel technology designed for security cameras to bring CMOS image sensors that delivers high-sensitivity shooting to market. In recent years, along with the growth of the security camera market, the demand is growing for image sensors that can not only provide high sensitivity, but also superior HDR imaging performance and the ability to capture images in diverse environments. The need for image recognition leveraging AI integration is also growing as demand for 24-hour imaging increases.

Generally, in order to provide HDR imaging, multi-exposure image capture is required, and the multiple images recorded at differing exposure times are composited into a single shot. This results in issues with artifacts,^*4 which can cause false recognition when using AI, especially when capturing moving subjects. The new product adopts Sony’s new proprietary “STARVIS 2” technology, which delivers both high sensitivity and HDR imaging. It allows for imaging in a single exposure, which suppresses the occurrence of artifacts, delivering 88 dB HDR, approximately 8 times that of conventional model without increasing the pixel size.^*1 It also increases the sensitivity in the near infrared range by approximately 1.7 times compared to conventional model.¹

Sony also plans to launch IMX662, a 1/3-type 2K resolution image sensor employing “STARVIS 2” to deliver an 88 dB dynamic range in a single exposure. Samples are scheduled to be made available for shipment within this year.

When integrated with AI, these products make high-precision image recognition possible in urban areas or other settings involving fast moving objects and other difficult conditions, regardless of the time of day.

*4:Noise generated when capturing moving subjects in HDR shooting.

Main Features

■HDR approximately 8 times that of conventional model¹ in a single exposure

This 1/1.2-type 4K-resolution image sensor employs Sony’s proprietary “STARVIS 2” technology, which leverages original process technology to increase the light receiving area despite pixel size limitations, thereby resulting in a higher dynamic range. This design delivers a HDR of 88 dB, approximately 8 times that of conventional model^*1 in a single exposure which suppresses artifacts during image capture. It can also be used in multi-exposure mode, delivering a HDR of 106 dB. The product offers versatile usage modes for various environments, enabling high-precision monitoring.

■Improved sensitivity in the near infrared range

The image sensor comes with an original device structure that employs a light incidence plane with irregularities on its surface. This design refracts incident light, thereby enhancing the absorption rate of invisible near infrared light, resulting in enhanced sensitivity approximately 1.7 times that of conventional model.^*1 As a result, the image sensor can capture high-quality images even in the near infrared range, which is often necessary for dark scenes at night.

Note: STARVIS and STARVIS 2 are the registered trademarks or trademarks of the Sony Group Corporation or its affiliated companies.