From smartphones to advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), manufacturers strive to develop sensors with high power efficiency and low overall cost. In this roundup, we spotlight Samsung, Sensry, and Melexis for new sensor technology and partnerships aimed at enhanced imaging and monitoring capabilities for a variety of applications.
Samsung Introduces New Image Sensors for Smartphones
Samsung recently announced the three new ISOCELL sensors—the HP9, GNJ, and JN5—to meet growing customer demand for better smartphone camera image quality and performance. All three sensors employ innovations in pixel and lens technology to offer high performance in low-light image capture.
All of the new sensors support D-PHY and C-PHY outputs. Unlike D-PHY, C-PHY uses a trio-based approach with a consolidated clock and data signals. Samsung claim’s the ISOCELL HP9 is the industry’s first 200 MP telephoto sensor for smartphones. Telephoto lenses, as their name suggests, allow users to zoom in on objects far away—a capability known as “telephoto zoom”.
The three ISOCELL image sensors. Image used courtesy of Samsung
Samsung says the HP9 excels in low-light applications and can achieve 2x to 4x in-sensor zoom and up to 12x zoom when coupled with a telephoto module. Using a proprietary high-refractive microlens, Samsung claims the HP9 significantly enhances the light-gathering capability of the sensor. Ultimately, Samsung says this allows for 12% better light sensitivity and 10% improved autofocus contrast performance compared to predecessors. The HP9 supports up to 2.5 Gbps DPHY output across four lanes and 4 Gsps CPHY output across three lanes.
The ISOCELL GNJ leverages innovations in pixel technology to deliver 50 MP high-resolution images with minimal artifacts. Specifically, the GNJ uses dual-pixel technology with two photodiodes embedded in each pixel to enable faster autofocus. The GNJ also features newly improved ARL (a high-transmittance anti-refractive layer) along with high-refractive microlens to reduce unwanted reflections and improve light transmission into the sensor.
The 50 MP JN5 targets low-light operation using super quad phase detection (SQPD) technology to catch small details of moving objects and filter noise. Samsung claims the JN5 also incorporates dual slope gain (DSG) technology to enhance its high dynamic range (HDR), which captures a wider color range.
Nordic and Sensry Collab on Multi-Sensor Platform
While Samsung’s new sensors introduce major innovations in design and architecture, other companies have released incremental improvements to their existing technology. Nordic Semiconductor recently announced that Sensry, a German company, released the latest version of its Kallisto multi-sensor platform. The platform features Nordic Semiconductor’s nRF52840 system-on-chip (SoC) and the nPM1100 power management integrated circuit (PMIC).
Sensry’s multi-sensor platform. Image used courtesy of Nordic Semiconductor
Sensry designed Kallisto to track device movements and environmental parameters such as temperature, humidity, and air quality indicators like CO2 levels. The module also features local storage for sensor data, a high-frequency vibration sensor for monitoring motor conditions, and a MEMS microphone.
Nordic’s technology, especially the nRF52840 SoC and nPM1100 PMIC, excels in power efficiency, essential for extending battery life in Sensry’s module. This efficiency is necessary for reliable and steady operation in industrial IoT deployments, where devices must function autonomously for extended periods. In environmental monitoring applications, the platform’s power management supports continuous data collection over extended periods, minimizing downtime for maintenance and maximizing accuracy.
Melexis Certifies Current Sensors for Higher Voltages
Melexis has enhanced its MLX91220 and MLX91221 current sensors with UL/IEC 62368-1 certification for reinforced isolation (RI), catering to applications needing higher voltage protection, such as automotive onboard chargers and HVAC systems.
This upgrade simplifies designs by eliminating the need for additional isolation components, reducing both engineering efforts and costs. The sensors also improve safety measures while maintaining their compact form factors to serve wide-ranging applications in automotive, industrial, and renewable energy sectors.
Block diagram of the MLX91220 integrated current sensor IC. Image used courtesy of Melexis
Both Nordic/Sensry and Melexis’ announcements feature upgrades to their existing technology. However, it’s worth noting that they are not without competition in the market. Libelium, for example, has developed an ultra-low-power multi-sensor platform for IoT applications that features an open-source SDK and API.
