Sony imx117 sensor

Types of Sony IMX117 Sensor

The Sony IMX117 sensor is available in various types, depending on the design and applications. They include:

• Back-illuminated (BI) sensors

  Back-illuminated sensors are also known as BSI sensors. The primary difference between the back-illuminated and front-illuminated sensors is how the light hits the sensor's surface. In back-illuminated sensors, the light hits the semiconductor surface directly. This allows more light to reach the photodiodes, improving sensitivity. As a result, back-illuminated sensors have high image quality and low-light performance.

• Global shutter sensors

  Global shutter sensors allow the capturing of images without motion artifacts. All pixels in a global shutter sensor are exposed simultaneously. Hence, they produce clear and accurate images of fast-moving subjects. These sensors are ideal for high-speed imaging applications.

• Rolling shutter sensors

  Rolling shutter sensors expose pixels sequentially. The exposure time rolls across the sensor like a wave. This is different from the global shutter sensor, which exposes all pixels at once. The rolling shutter is great for capturing still images. The imager chips are simpler, and the cost is relatively low.

• Stacked CMOS sensors

  Stacked CMOS sensors combine the pixel array with the processor circuits. This reduces the distance signals have to travel. As a result, the readout speed increases. The sensors capture more frames per second. They also have a high signal-to-noise ratio.

• HDR (High Dynamic Range) sensors

  Dynamic range is the difference between the highest and lowest light levels a sensor can capture. HDR sensors have a wide dynamic range. They can capture bright and low-light scenes in detail. The sensors achieve this by using multiple exposure levels in a single image. The data from the different exposures is combined to form one image. HDR sensors are suitable for scenes with varying light conditions.

• Low-light sensors

  These sensors are designed to capture images in low-light conditions. They have high sensitivity to light and can reduce noise in low-light environments. Low-light sensors are ideal for night vision applications.

• RGBW sensors

  RGBW sensors have red, green, blue, and white pixels. The white pixels capture more light and improve sensitivity. RGBW sensors are mainly used in applications where color accuracy and brightness are crucial.

Specification & Maintenance of Sony IMX117 Sensor

The sony imx117 sensor is a camera sensor with a diagonal of 7.44 mm (Type 1/2.4) and a resolution of 12.4 million pixels. It is designed for compact digital cameras and camera phones. The IMX117 sensor is smaller than other sensors, allowing it to be used in devices with limited space. It has a high-speed interface that allows fast data transfer, making it suitable for applications requiring quick response times.

Below are the specifications of the Sony IMX117 sensor:

• 1. Sensor size: 1/2.4-inch (6.17 x 4.55 mm).
• 2. Pixel size: 1.0 µm x 1.0 µm.
• 3. Total pixels: 12.4 million pixels (4032 x 3040).
• 4. Active pixels: 12.0 million pixels (4024 x 3036).
• 5. Aspect ratio: 4:3.
• 6. Gain: 14.7 dB.
• 7. Readout noise: 7.5 e- (electrons).
• 8. Power consumption: 60 mW.
• 9. Interface: Serial Peripheral Interface (SPI)

Maintaining the Sony IMX117 sensor is crucial for optimal performance. Here are some maintenance tips:

• 1. Cleaning: Regularly clean the sensor to remove dust and debris using a soft brush or air blower. Use sensor cleaning solutions and swabs when necessary.
• 2. Protective filters: Use protective filters on the camera lens to reduce dust and debris from reaching the sensor.
• 3. Humidity and temperature: Keep the camera in an environment with suitable humidity and temperature to prevent moisture buildup and corrosion.
• 4. Avoid changing lenses in the field: Minimize exposure of the sensor to the environment by avoiding lens changes in outdoor settings.
• 5. Software updates: Regularly check for software updates from the manufacturer to ensure the sensor performs optimally.

How to choose sony imx117 sensor

When selecting the right Sony IMX117 sensor for a specific use case, consider the following factors:

• Understanding Requirements

  Evaluate the project needs first. Is it for a high-speed action shot or a low-light environment? The project requirements will influence which IMX117 variant to select.

• Environmental Conditions

  Consider the operating environment. If it's for outdoor use, sensors with good weatherproofing and durability against elements like dust and moisture should be selected.

• Lens Compatibility

  Ensure that the selected IMX117 variant is compatible with the available lenses, particularly in terms of focal lengths and aperture sizes, to achieve the desired field of view and depth of focus.

• Processing Power

  Different IMX117 variants may require different levels of processing power to handle the data they produce. Factor in whether the existing system has adequate processing capabilities to manage the selected sensor's output efficiently.

• Budget

  While not a technical consideration, budget constraints will impact the decision. Balance performance with cost to find the best value sensor for the specific application.

How to DIY and Replace Sony IMX117 Sensor

Replacing the sony imx117 sensor is a delicate process that needs professional handling. However, if one has previous experience in repairing smartphones, they can try it out. Before commencing the process, ensure to read the manufacturer's manual to understand the process better.

Gather all the necessary tools for the process. This includes; a heat gun, suction cup, sharp prying tools, tweezers, and adhesive. Take an iPhone 14 as an example. Start by powering down the device. Use the heat gun to warm up the device and loosen the adhesive holding the back panel. Use the suction cup and pry tools to create a gap and lift the back panel. Be careful not to damage any internal components while opening up the device.

Locate the battery first and disconnect it. After that, locate the mainboard and remove all the screws holding it down. Disconnect all the cables connecting the mainboard to the phone. Carefully remove the mainboard and locate the camera module. Remove the camera module and replace it with the new one with the Sony IMX117 sensor. Reconnect all the cables, put back the mainboard, and back panel. Power on the device, and it should work perfectly.

For detailed instructions, refer to the user's manual or look for tutorial videos online.

Q and A

Q1: What is the Sony IMX117 sensor?

A1: The Sony IMX117 sensor is a 1/2.9-inch, 13-megapixel CMOS image sensor that Sony introduced in 2013. It is widely used in smartphones and other portable devices to provide high-quality image capture. The IMX117 sensor can record 4K video at 30 frames per second, making it suitable for applications requiring detailed and smooth video performance.

Q2: What are the features of the Sony IMX117 sensor?

A2: Sony's IMX117 sensor features advanced technologies such as HDR (High Dynamic Range) and a global shutter. HDR allows the sensor to capture a broader range of brightness levels, ensuring detailed images in scenes with varying light conditions. The Global Shutter technology enables simultaneous exposure of all pixels in the sensor, reducing motion artifacts and improving image quality in dynamic scenarios.

Q3: What is the benefit of the Sony IMX117 sensor for users?

A3: The Sony IMX117 sensor benefits users by providing excellent image quality, low-light performance, and advanced features such as HDR. It enables detailed and vibrant images, even in challenging lighting conditions. The sensor's capabilities make it suitable for applications in security cameras, automotive cameras, and drones, where high-quality image capture is critical.

Q4: What is the application of the Sony IMX117 sensor?

A4: Besides its use in smartphones, the Sony IMX117 sensor is also used in various portable devices, including action cameras and high-end webcams. Its compact size and power-efficient design make it ideal for applications requiring high performance without compromising portability and battery life.

Q5: Is the Sony IMX117 sensor still relevant today?

A5: While the Sony IMX117 sensor was a groundbreaking technology in its time, newer and more advanced sensors have since been developed. However, it remains a competent solution for many applications, especially where cost-effectiveness and decent performance are crucial.

Popularity Trends

The web search volume for the keyword "sony imx117 sensor" shows an average monthly interest of 10 web searches, with no significant change observed over the past year or three months. The data reveals a fluctuating interest pattern across the twelve-month span, with peaks in April and May at 20 and 40 web searches, respectively, and several months recording zero web searches.

Delving into the monthly trends, the keyword experienced its highest web search volume in May 2024 with 40 web searches, followed by a sharp decline to 10 web searches in June and zero web searches from July to October. A slight recovery is noted in November and December with 10 web searches each month. This pattern indicates sporadic interest in the Sony IMX117 sensor, with no consistent monthly demand.

The web search volume fluctuations suggest that interest in the Sony IMX117 sensor is not steady but rather reactive to specific market or technological events. The peaks in April and May could be attributed to specific industry developments or product launches that temporarily increased demand or curiosity about this sensor model. However, without additional context, the reasons for these fluctuations remain speculative. The overall stable web search volume trends, despite the variations, suggest that while the sensor does not have widespread, ongoing interest, it maintains a niche but persistent relevance in its specific market segments.