IMX477: Raspberry Pi HQ Official Camera

Raspberry Pi recently launched its latest version of the camera module, the high-resolution Sony IMX477 sensor. Unlike the existing V2 module, it offers 50% enhanced sensitivity and resolution resulting in better performance. Further, its IR-CUT switchable 13mp camera enhances the quality of the image resulting in improved low-light performance. We will look at the IMX477 in detail and explore some of its technologies. Generally, all you need to know about this image sensor.

What is IMX477?

IMX477 is a professional, impressive, high-definition camera module with a square pixel rate. Moreover, it's a 1/2.3−inch CMOS active imaging pixel array sensor driver and Raspberry Pi official product. In addition, IMX477 supports 12 – megapixel 4056 (H) X 3040 (V) digital still images. It also features 1.55um x 1.55um x 1.55 um Exmor RS technology. Similar to other cameras, it uses the same connector and CSI cable. Besides, it's compatible with any Raspberry Pi model. Indeed, IMX477 is perfect for clients' applications and industrial environments. Hence, their primary application areas are security cameras requiring specialized optics integration and high fidelity levels.

DSLR camera and image

IMX477 Specification

5 Markets IMX477 Mainly Serve

IMX477 usually serves five markets:

• Mobile
• Automotive
• Customer camera
• Surveillance/security
• Industry

Modern cameras on the wooden table

What Are The Technologies Used in Sony IMX477?

Stacked Image Sensor

Sony launched conventional CMOS image sensors that layers pixel units encompassing back-illuminated formation structures. A stacked CMOS image sensor implements exceptional "stacked structure." It not only features large–scale circuits, which are mountable, but also maintains the same chip size. Furthermore, the circuit and pixel size unit feature autonomous chips formation. Equally important, it enables the circuit unit to specialize in higher functionality while improving raw image sharpness quality.

Back-illuminated

The back-illuminated pixel sensors have the same layers of structure. Nevertheless, they are diverse orders. As a result, it reduces defect bits per pixel rate and dark current, lowering random noise while achieving higher sensitivity. Moreover, the advanced technologies have addressed all color blend hitches by safeguarding high-precision alignment.

Full-Frame Exmor R BSI CMOS Sensor

DOL-HDR

The DOL-HDR is an exceptional image quality processing system that syndicates various spotlights into a single image brightness. As a result, both the darkest and brightest part of the photo becomes visible. Furthermore, it captures brilliant color filters in still and video imaging, even when shooting pictures in visual solid light conditions.

Woman taking pictures

Column Parallel A/D Converter

The A/D conversion processes have vital competencies such as canceling automatic noise and reducing analogs circuit size. In addition, CMOS sensor circuits transform analog pixel signals into digital signals through analog-digital (A/D) conversion. Besides, it maximizes the speed by positioning numerous courses horizontally and operating them instantaneously.

IMX477 Uses in Projects

Vintage movie camera

IMX477 Camera for Raspberry Pi, Jetson Nano, and Jetson Xavier NX

Under any Jetvariety project, you can use the IMX477 camera module to increase the variety of Jetson Nano A02 cameras. It operates using a single kernel image driver. Besides, for the Jetvariety driver to work, it requires a Jetvariety power adapter and an arducam-certified camera module.

Similarly, the Jetvariety project features a universal solution to solve Jetson Nano A02 camera problems. Therefore, through the exclusive general-purpose camera solution, its makers increased its quality. As a result, the camera features a camera driver and adapter carrier board making it much easier to add when adding a new camera to the Jetson platforms.

Nvidia Jetson board

Source: Wikipedia

IMX477 Image Sensor

IMX477 comes with a monetized focus camera. Hence, it enables you to focus the camera without having to screw the lens using your hands. Moreover, for an intelligent focus, the camera module incorporates a motor, which is software-controlled. Instead, you can use OpenCV or keyboards keys to control the focusing process remotely. Similarly, with IMX477, everything needed for a machine vision project is easy. Likewise, under the right conditions, IMX477 supports 300 maximum frame rate per second capture rates. Therefore, there is no need to worry about ensuring shutdowns happen correctly, enclosures, or adding a real-time clock. Hence, there are no issues with this camera module, unlike in other situations involving Raspberry Pi.

Digital SLR camera from all viewpoints

Summary

IMX477 cameras achieve high-speed image sharpness, improved low-light performance, and high sensitivity using Sony's Stacked CMOS kernel image sensor technology. Besides, it features a supplied power adapter, accepts CS-mount lenses, and supports C-mount lenses. As a result, all these features make it appropriate for consumer cameras and industrial applications. Consequently, it fits every application requiring integration with specialized optics and high visual fidelity levels. In addition, other applications that fit these camera modules include CCTV, drones, mobile projects, etc.