A 2/3" 2-M pixel progressive scan FT-CCD for digital still camera applications

The first 2M-pixel CCD image sensor especially developed for digital still camera applications is presented. The sensor can be operated in various modes, to best suit the camera requirements. High-quality full resolution images are obtained using the camera's mechanical shutter. A variety of subsampled color images of reduced vertical resolution can be generated by simply changing the pulse pattern, allowing, e.g. real-time preview mode on the camera's LCD display, or fast auto-focus mode. The sensor output amplifier combines low noise and excellent linearity with a high conversion factor.