Sony Launches Visible and SWIR Based Imagers

Sony Semiconductor Solutions has launched two new image sensors that include both the visible and short wavelength infrared (SWIR) ranges in captured images. The IMX990 and IMX991 sensors utilize the industry’s smallest 5µm pixel size of any InGaAs based sensor.

These sensors leverage Sony’s original SenSWIR technology and are SXGA 1/2-type and VGA 1/4-type imagers that are being made available by Framos. Both these products utilize a 5µm square pixel that can capture light wavelengths that are both visible and nonvisible to the human eye. The spectral response of these sensors is between 400nm-1700nm allowing them to detect and see into the SWIR range while not sacrificing too much within the visible spectrum ranges. This is partially achieved through thinning of the top Indium Phosphide (InP) layer, placed above the indium gallium arsenide (InGaAs). This thinning allowing the shorter wavelengths, those in the blue light range, to pass through and be absorbed in the sensitive InGaAs region. This sensing layer is then connected to the readout circuitry through Cu-Cu connections that help them deliver high quality images in a compact design. Additional outer memory provides real-time optical black (OPB) dark level information without the need for external dark current correction (DCC).