Sony Starvis IMX178 – 6.44 MP Color CMOS Sensor with Exmor R Technology

The IMX178LQJ-C is a 6.44 MP Starvis back-illuminated color CMOS sensor designed for high-quality imaging in low-light and NIR environments, with a 60 fps frame rate.

The Sony IMX178LQJ-C is a high-performance CMOS image sensor featuring Sony’s STARVIS back-illuminated technology. Designed for industrial and security applications, this sensor offers excellent low-light performance and high sensitivity, making it ideal for imaging in both visible and near-infrared light regions. Equipped with Sony’s Exmor R technology, the IMX178LQJ-C enhances imaging performance, providing higher sensitivity, low noise, and superior image quality even in challenging lighting conditions.

The sensor has a diagonal size of 8.92 mm (Type 1/1.8 inch) and offers a resolution of 3096 x 2080 pixels, totaling 6.38 million effective pixels. The compact pixel size of 2.4 x 2.4 μm further improves light-gathering capabilities, ensuring detailed and sharp images. The IMX178LQJ-C supports rolling shutter imaging and is designed to handle high-speed image capture, achieving up to 60 frames per second (fps) at lower resolutions and 29.97 fps at full resolution. The sensor’s serial LVDS output enables fast data transmission, making it suitable for applications requiring real-time imaging.

Key features of the IMX178LQJ-C include:

• 6.38 MP resolution (3096 x 2080)
• 2.4 x 2.4 μm pixel size for high sensitivity and detailed imaging
• Rolling shutter for area sensor imaging
• High-speed frame rate: 29.97 fps at full resolution, up to 60 fps at lower resolutions
• STARVIS and Exmor R technology for enhanced low-light performance
• Serial LVDS output for fast data transfer
• LGA 128-pin package for flexible system integration

The IMX178LQJ-C is particularly suited for security cameras, industrial inspections, and other applications where high sensitivity and low-light performance are crucial. The sensor’s STARVIS technology, combined with Exmor R, ensures high image quality in low-light environments, making it ideal for nighttime surveillance or environments with limited lighting. Its rolling shutter and fast frame rates ensure smooth video capture, even when monitoring fast-moving objects or scenes.

With its compact 2.4 x 2.4 μm pixel size, the IMX178LQJ-C excels in both high and low-light conditions, delivering sharp, clear images regardless of the environment. The sensor’s LVDS output allows for fast data transmission, making it easy to integrate into high-performance imaging systems. The LGA 128-pin package provides flexibility for integration into a wide range of devices, making it suitable for both compact and industrial-grade camera designs.

The Sony IMX178LQJ-C combines STARVIS and Exmor R technology, high-speed imaging, and excellent low-light performance, making it a versatile and powerful solution for a variety of industrial and security imaging applications. Whether used for surveillance, machine vision, or other demanding imaging tasks, this sensor delivers the sensitivity, speed, and reliability needed for today’s advanced imaging systems.