Santa Clara, Calif.-based OmniVision Technologies, Inc. has launched the OH08A and OH08B CMOS image sensors―the first 8 megapixel (MP) resolution sensors for single-use and reusable endoscopes. Additionally, the new OH08B is the first medical-grade image sensor to use OmniVision’s Nyxel near-infrared (NIR) technology―bringing imaging capabilities beyond the visible spectrum to the medical industry.

The medical-grade OH08A image sensor features a 1/2.5-inch optical format, incorporates 1.4µm PureCelPlus-S pixel technology and offers 4K2K resolution in a small 7.1 x 4.6mm package, which is suitable for chip-on-tip endoscopes. The OH08B has a 1/1.8-inch optical format, uses a larger 2.0µm PureCel pixel in a 8.9 x 6.3mm package, and features OmniVision’s Nyxel technology, which allows enhanced visualization in NIR spectral range.

“Our next-generation OH08A/B 8MP image sensors are targeted at endoscopes with a 10mm-12mm outer diameter, such as gastroscopes, duodenoscopes, amnioscopes, laparoscopes, and colonoscopes. They deliver higher image quality, up to 4K2K resolution at 60 fps, greatly improving the doctor’s ability to visualize the human anatomy during these important procedures,” says Richard Yang, senior staff product marketing manager at OmniVision.

“In the OH08B, we’ve taken our sensor to the next level by adding Nyxel technology, which offers better performance in color and IR sensitivity, enabling doctors to see sharper video during NIR, fluorescence, chromo-endoscopy, and virtual endoscopy procedures,” Yang adds. “Also, higher sensitivity results in less illumination, thus reducing the heat at the tip of the endoscope.”

The OH08A is built on OmniVision’s PureCel Plus-S stacked die technology, enabling high functionality in the smallest possible die size. The sensor utilizes this proprietary pixel technology to improve image quality by reducing or eliminating fixed pattern noise, as well as providing high full well capacity (improving dynamic range), advanced low light sensitivity, zero blooming, and lower power consumption.

Other key features include a 15.5-degree chief ray angle (CRA) for the OH08A and 11-degree CRA for the OH08B, enabling the use of lenses with large field of view and short focus distance; pulse width modulation output LED drivers; and four-lane MIPI output with raw data. These sensors are stereo ready with frame synchronization to support a host of depth perception applications. Additionally, they are autoclavable for reusable endoscope sterilization.