ASIC image sensors

Two image array sensors designed and fabricated using a standard two-level metal ASIC CMOS process are described. The results show that good quality grey-level images can be formed, and that CMOS sensors arrays can be successfully integrated with efficient analogue sense amplifiers and with digital control/image-processing logic. The first sensor is a prototype 128×128 pixel test array. The second is a 312×287 pixel image sensor chip which includes all the necessary circuitry to produce full PAL format video output, as well as automatic electronic exposure control and built-in test circuits. Test results characterizing the devices are given, covering dynamic range, spectral response, sensitivity, resistance to blooming, etc. Some potential applications for such devices are mentioned