OmniVision Technologies (News - Alert), a developer of advanced digital imaging solutions, unveiled a compact VGA CameraCubeChip, the OVM7695. Still in the sampling stage, the camera IC is expected to enter volume production in 2013.

The reflowable OVM7695VGA CameraCubeChip comes in a module size of 2.4 x 2.4 x 2.3 mm, and is most suitable as a front-facing camera solution which is easy to assemble and tune. These features will cater to the needs of mobile device manufacturers.

“Front-facing cameras have quickly become a defining feature in mobile devices. As these devices continue down the path of miniaturization, manufacturers are tasked with providing a better video recording experience within tighter space constraints,” said Aaron Chiang, senior technical marketing manager at OmniVision.

In order to deliver an optimal video recording experience, OmniVision has incorporated advanced backside illumination pixel technology in its VGA products. The OmniBSI+ pixel architecture employed in the OVM7695 provides high-quality video in a thin form factor.

The OVM7695 serves as a standard camera IC and does not require complex tuning arrangements. This reduces inventory risks and hence production cost and time-to-market, said officials.

The new solution, based on 1.75-micron OmniBSI+ pixel design, ensures greater sensitivity and optimized image reproduction. This also delivers good quality video even when lighting conditions are not good.

Moreover, the OVM7695 can capture high-quality VGA video at 30 frames per second (FPS). Users can also benefit from the full-frame, sub-sampled and cropped images provided through the Serial Camera Control Bus (SCCB) interface.

Recently, OmniVision’s OV10630 image sensor was selected by Tesla Motors to support the manufacturer’s rear-view camera system in Model S. The high-quality HD video provided by the sensor allowed Tesla to design and integrate a HD camera into a 17-inch infotainment system.

“The quality and field-of-view of the images provide Model S drivers an unparalleled driving experience even in challenging lighting conditions,” said Satish Jeyachandran, senior manager, hardware development at Tesla Motors.

OmniVision’s CMOS imaging technology is leveraged widely in mobile phones, notebooks, tablets and webcams, digital still and video cameras, security and surveillance, entertainment devices, automotive and medical imaging systems.