New Imaging Sensor Delivers Maximum SNR across Scene Lighting and ISO Speed Conditions

San Jose, CA, September 21, 2010 -- Aptina, the leading innovator of CMOS imaging technology, today introduced its high-performance, feature-rich APS-C format 16 megapixel (MP) MT9H004 image sensor. Engineered specifically to enable the high image quality demanded by professional photographers, the new MT9H004 sensor offers high sensitivity, low dark current, and low readout noise in addition to 16MP still image capture at 10fps. Leveraging the company's latest dynamic response (DR) pixel technology innovation, called Aptina™ DR-Pix™ technology, the new APS-C format imaging solution delivers a 5dB increase in signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) under low-light conditions without sacrificing the performance in high-light environments, where it can achieve a max SNR of 47dB. Aptina's new solution also offers advanced features, such as live view video support, and stunning 1080p/30fps high-definition (HD) video recording.

Until recently, the performance and image quality requirements for DSLR camera applications have been a barrier to entry for most standard CMOS image sensors. With its unique pixel technology innovations, the new Aptina MT9H004 is an attractive alternative for applications in this growing marketplace. In fact, analyst firm TSR estimates CMOS image sensor shipments for the DSLR market to be 12.5 million in 2013, up from 4 million in 2007, with much of this growth coming from the emerging compact mirrorless segment of the market.

"Designed by our Japan design center to provide the highest image quality possible, our new APS-C format sensor delivers the maximum signal-to-noise ratio across all scene lighting and ISO speed conditions," said Junichi Nakamura, Aptina’s Japan Design Center Director. "The positive reception our sensor has received from DSLR camera makers underscores the SNR and inter-scene dynamic range performance we’ve been able to achieve."

"For our new high-performance APS-C format 16 Megapixel CMOS image sensor, the DSLR camera opportunity over the next few years is tremendous," said Sandor Barna, General Manager of Aptina's Camera Business Unit. "Our new sensor is only the first step in our effort to secure a prominent position in this exciting market."

Aptina DR-Pix Technology
Aptina's innovative approach to improving low light performance without compromising image quality utilizes a dynamic response pixel, called Aptina DR-Pix technology. Aptina DR-Pix technology combines two modes of operation in one pixel design – low conversion gain mode for large charge handling capacity in bright scenes and a high conversion gain mode with increased sensitivity and low read noise for low-light scenes. The result is a sensor, like the company's 16MP MT9H004, that offers the best possible noise performance over all ISO speed conditions. For more information, visit Aptina's website at www.aptina.com/products/technology/aptina_dr-pix.jsp

Availability
Sampling now, Aptina's new 16MP MT9H004 image sensor is available in a 116-pin CLCC package. Mass production is scheduled for CYQ1 2011.

About Aptina
Aptina is a global provider of CMOS imaging solutions with a growing portfolio of products that can be found in all leading mobile phone and notebook computer brands as well as a wide range of products for digital and video cameras, surveillance, medical, automotive and industrial applications, video conferencing, barcode scanners, toys, and gaming. Aptina enables Imaging Everywhere™ and continually drives innovation in the market as seen with the introduction of the first 14MP CMOS image sensor for point-and-shoot and hybrid cameras (MT9F001), and the industry's first 5MP SOC with ¼" format (MT9P111). Privately held, Aptina’s investors include Riverwood Capital, TPG Capital and Micron Technology. For additional information on Aptina visit www.aptina.com or subscribe to the latest news from Aptina by copying the Aptina RSS feed into your favorite RSS reader.

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