Toshiba Expands the Line-up of CMOS Image Sensors

Toshiba has announced the expansion of its line-up of image sensors with the addition of three new image sensors, which are equipped with Phase Detection Auto-Focus (PDAF). The company has unveiled 8MP (T4KA3-121), 13MP (T4KB3-121) and 20MP (T4KA7-121) BSI EMOS image sensors. Toshiba already launched the 16MP (T4KC3-121) image sensor on 16 July 2015.

The company notes that originally developed for SLR cameras, PDAF locks in focus at speeds much faster than the auto-focus systems used in smartphones and tablets. This is driving demand for PDAF on those platforms. The PDAF eliminated the space for an AF sensor in the camera module, as they are embedded in the CMOS image sensor itself.

Toshiba T4KA3-121 BSI EMOS image sensors

The 8MP, 13MP and 20MP feature optical size of 1/4-inch, 1/3.07-inch and 1/2.4-inch respectively. All three new additions offer a pixel pitch of BSI 1.12 micro-meter. In addition to PDAF, the new image sensors support functionalities such as Bright Mode high speed image capturing and HDR.

The sample prices of the 8MP, 13MP and 20MP image sensor are pegged at 1500 yen (approx. Rs. 773), 1600 yen (approx. Rs. 825) and 2500 yen (approx. Rs. 1290) respectively. The sample shipment will start from 3 August 2015, 17 August 2015 and October 2015 respectively.