Camera phones and webcams continue to get thinner, sleeker and more powerful with new imaging innovations being driven by Micron Technology. Today Micron introduced a new, smaller 1.3-megapixel image sensor designed to fit into a 1/5-inch optical format.

There are certain image quality values that must be met for webcams and camera phones, one of which is fast frame rates for capturing crisp, clear video. The new Micron image sensor (product number MT9M019) captures 30 frames per second (fps) at full 1.3-megapixel resolution (1,280 by 1,024 pixels) or 60 fps at VGA resolution (640 by 480 pixels), allowing for high-quality, seamless video.

Another important feature for webcam and camera phone applications is a high dynamic range, which ensures the user a high-quality picture or video in various lighting conditions. The new MT9M019 sensor can image as low as 1 lux (equivalent to the light from one candle). Additionally, another critical design factor is its small 1/5-inch form factor, allowing it to fit into applications requiring the smallest footprint and camera height.