Complete camera modules ease evaluation of monochrome image sensor

The CAM-55G1 modules from STMicroelectronics provide a ready-made camera system for evaluation and integration of the VD55G1 0.56 Mpixel monochrome image sensor. These ready-to-use cameras combine a VD55G1 sensor, lens holder, lens, and flexible printed circuit (FPC) connection, integrated into a single module as small as 5.0 mm².

The VD55G1 sensor is ideal for small, low-power embedded systems, particularly those which use AI for intelligent vision. The sensor features the world’s first 2.16 µm global shutter pixel. Its tiny 2.73 mm x 2.16 mm footprint fits into space-constrained products such as AR/VR glasses or personal electronics devices.

Low power consumption is maintained even when the VD55G1 is operating at the highest frame rates, making it ideal for battery-powered devices. The sensor’s low power consumption is enhanced by its automatic wake-up feature. This enables the sensor to operate in an ultra low-power sleep mode when no change or event is detected. As soon as an event is detected, the sensor automatically sends a trigger to the host processor to switch into full streaming mode to capture the corresponding event. 

The VD55G1 image sensor is supplied by ST as a bare die, so the CAM-55G1 modules provide an easier integration option for OEMs. The CAM-55G1 implements all the camera features of the VD55G1 image sensor, including: 

• Auto-exposure
• Automatic wake-up
• Background removal

Multiple GPIOs enable users to synchronize the modules with triggers and an illumination source. Featuring a single-lane MIPI CSI-2 output, the modules are perfectly suited for low-power embedded vision applications.

The CAM-55G1 cameras are supplied with a choice of lenses to match the needs of various applications, providing different options for optical set-up and mechanical specifications. All camera modules are equipped with the same FPC-to-board connector and pin-out. This plug-and-play architecture allows users to change the choice of module, and re-use the same set-up with different lenses, color options and even different image sensors from the ST BrightSense portfolio.

The modules are backed by a comprehensive set of free enablement software, drivers and evaluation tools, including drivers for a Linux^® operating system.

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