Matrix for CCTV cameras. What to look for? / Geektimes

The image quality of the video camera largely depends on the photosensitive sensor (matrix) used in it. After all, put at least the best processor for video digitization – if a bad image is received on the matrix, it will not be good anymore. I will try to explain popularly what should be paid attention to the characteristics of the sensor of the CCTV camera, so that later it would not be painfully painful when looking at the image …

Matrix Type

You will find information that CCD (CCD, charge-coupled device) and CMOS (CMOS, complementary structure of metal-oxide-semiconductor) light-sensitive matrices are used in CCTV cameras. Forget it! For a long time there was only CMOS, only hardcore.

CCD matrix, with all their advantages (better photosensitivity and color rendering, less noise) – are practically not used in video surveillance. Because the principle of their action the CCD – sequential reading of the charge on the cells – too slow to meet the demands of today’s fastest high-definition camcorders. Well, the most important thing CCD is more expensive in production, and in the conditions of a modern highly competitive environment, every kopeck has arrived on the account. That’s why all the key manufacturers have focused on the issue is a CMOS sensor.

remains to producers, among other things, not so much. The largest, as of the beginning of 2017, are the companies: ON Semiconductor Corporation (at one time absorbed the well-known profile company Aptina), Omnivision Technologies Inc., Samsung Electronics and Sony Corporation. In addition, the matrix for own needs is produced, for example, by Canon, Hikvision.

Chinese, second-tier chipmakers like SOI (Silicon Optronics, Inc.) are trying to create competition for old brands, and others. It is difficult to say whether the young shoots will survive when is saturated and becomes too closely on the market CMOS sensors. But in any case, the appearance of new players and the aggravation of the struggle are not ruled out in this segment, since it is not too difficult to set up the production of CMOS sensors.

Large world brands such as Hikvision or Dahua usually prefer to work with Manufacturers of first-tier matrices or proprietary ones. Locals behave differently. For example, Tecsar, even in low-cost cameras, uses matrices with a good reputation from ON Semiconductor, Omnivision and Sony. In the range of other “folk” brands, for example Berger, SOI sensors are widely represented, etc.