STMicroelectronics has introduced the single-chip VGA camera module VS6524. The complete VGA (640 x 480-pixel) camera subsystem does use an 7mm x 7mm x 4.5mm package. The module produces an industry-standard ITU-R BT.656-4 compliant digital video stream at up to 30 frames per second (fps). The embedded Image Signal Processor (ISP) provides utilizes algorithms for pixel defect correction, lens shading compensation, sharpness enhancement, gamma correction, demosaicing, downscaling, and color space conversion. The dual-element plastic lens with the 50° horizontal field-of-view and a minimum focus distance of 20 cm facilitates macro image capture. The integrated flexible camera controller supports automatic exposure control, white balance control, display flicker elimination and flashgun control in both automatic and user-defined operation modes. The full range of power management features, including power switches, power-safe pins, power-on reset cell, and core-voltage regulator, enables straightforward camera activation and an ultra-low standby current of 10-microamps. The module operates from a main power supply ranging from 2.4V to 3.0V and the camera interface signals use a separate 1.8V or 2.8V supply rail. Engineering samples, as well as the evaluation kits (USB 2.0 camera) are available now. The volume production of the VS6524 is scheduled for Q2 2005. The complete camera module with flexible printed circuit and board-to-board connector is priced at $6 in large quantities.
