CMOS image sensor for disposable and reusable endoscopes

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OMNIVISION has unveiled the OH02B image sensor – the first square 2-megapixel (MP) (1500x1500) resolution CMOS image sensor for reusable and disposable endoscopes, catheters, and guide wires.

Available in the smallest form factor 2.5x2.5mm, the CameraCubeChip package (OCH2B) has been developed for disposable designs. It features OMNIVISION’s AntLinx proprietary technology, which provides the thinnest 4-meter interface connection directly from the endoscope camera to the camera control unit (CCU) tower.

“The medical industry is moving to single-use endoscopes to minimise cross-contamination and improve patient safety. CCD-based image sensors cannot meet today’s high-performance endoscope requirements and are being phased out,” said Richard Yang, senior marketing manager, OMNIVISION.

“CMOS image sensors, such as the OH02B, are critical for the disposable endoscope market because they enable high resolution and small size, generate very low heat at the tip of the scope design, and are cost-effective for one-time use. The CameraCubeChip design provides further size advantages and simplifies design resources and the supply chain.”

OMNIVISION’s AntLinx digital interface connects the OH02B/OCH2B from the endoscope camera to the CCU tower and features only four thin micro-coaxial cables that reach 4 meters long. It is not affected by noise or electromagnetic interference and has minimal electromagnetic conduction. AntLinx delivers improved video quality and reduces interface conversion requirements, even for long-reach applications like gastrointestinal endoscopy.

OMNIVISION is ISO13485 certified and medical products are EMC and EMI tested, which helps to streamline the medical device OEM’s FDA approval process.

The OCH2B is also biocompatible and waterproof, and the OH02B is autoclavable. It does not require tuning or calibration.

Samples of the OH02B imager and OCH2B camera are available now.