New space-qualified CMOS image sensor delivers performance and value for harsh environments

Teledyne e2v has released a new image sensor package, the CIS120. Samples are available now (since February 2019) along with a full test and demonstration system. This new and anticipated industry-leading image detector is an easy-to-use general-purpose imager designed for harsh environments such as space applications.

Key specifications of the CIS120 include a resolution of 2048 x 2048 and back-illuminated 10µm square pixels with a quantum efficiency of 90% at 550 nm (typical) for outstanding low light sensitivity. The sensor offers both a rolling shutter mode with a frame rate of 30 fps (8 bit) and a global shutter mode with a frame rate of 20 fps (12 bit). A combination of low readout noise and on-chip analog-to-digital conversion provides excellent image quality.

Key features include:

• Good latch-up immunity and high SEU threshold by design and is resistant to ionising radiation by process choice

• Pixel read timing is set by an on-chip sequencer to simplify use and to reduce pin count

• A column parallel ADC is used to quantize each row of pixels in turn and is controlled by its own sequencer

• Resolution can be set anywhere from 8 to 14 bits

• Four LVDS channels output the image data and are controlled by the readout sequencer to scan along each row in turn. Two LVDS synchronisation channels allow accurate data sampling

• All configuration settings are programmed over an SPI. This includes shutter mode, ADC resolution and bias current values

• Package options include ceramic PGA and metal and ceramic three-side butting designs for use in mosaic focal planes

• CIS120 is stitched, so other sizes are possible from 2048 × 1024, up to 2048 × 8192 pixels, without the cost of new masks as well as other customer-specific requirements such as anti-reflective coatings