New Image-Processing Chips for Compact Digital Cameras

Fujitsu Limited announced two new models of advanced image processing chips that should lead to higher resolution imaging for more compact models of digital camera. The new image processing chips use large-scale integrated circuit (LSI) technology to combine a number of different features for digital cameras onto a single chip and are expected to be available to digital camera manufacturers by 1 August.

Besides integrating functions necessary for color interpolation, image compression and a variety of interfaces, the new MB91683 and MB91686 chips (part of Fujitsu’s Milbeaut™ line of advanced image processing chips) feature low power consumption and high-resolution imaging technology. All these features combined make the new chips ideal for use in a variety of digital cameras as well as in mobile phones that feature digital imaging and video.

The technology was developed through the collaboration of a number of Fujitsu divisions using 300-mm silicon wafers and 90 nanometer process technology. Integrating all these functions onto a singl chip enables the design of smaller, lighter, and slimmer cameras featuring high-resolution imaging.

Primary Features:

• Peripheral functions that normally require additional chips have been embedded in a single chip to enable smaller camera size and lowers overall cost. These include calendar function, voice recording, and playback amplifier. Codec programs are stored on NAND flash memory, eliminating the need for an extra external memory chip for these programs.
• Built-in high-sensitivity photography and anti-shake image processing functions allows for a faster shutter, noise reduction, and less distortion from shaking - all desirable features for high-resolution compact digital cameras.
• The MB91686 model also includes an embedded MPEG4 codec for digital cameras, offering both high-quality imagery and high compression rates. It also enables high-quality video recording and playback at 30 frames per second with VGA (640 x 480) resolution and a 16-bit digital signal processor is built in for audio processing. HDMI(1) interface and a REC656 input interface enables connection to a variety of audio/video equipment.

For 10-15% less, the MB91683 comes on a slightly smaller chip, but is also a little slower, and lacks the high-quality (HDMI) audio/video recording and playback functions.