Sony Unveils 8K Global Shutter Sensor Achieving 200 FPS
In a significant advancement for imaging technology, Sony has introduced the IMX929, an 8K global shutter sensor capable of achieving 200 frames per second (fps). This new addition to Sony’s sensor lineup represents a remarkable leap in readout speed and resolution.
Sony IMX929 Features
The Sony IMX929’s impressive capabilities stem from its design. It uses a stacked CMOS architecture and the Pregius S global shutter technology, similar to its predecessor, the IMX928. However, the IMX929 is optimized for high-speed performance instead of maximum size.
- Resolution: Approximately 8224 × 6176 effective pixels, exceeding 8K UHD.
- Frame Rates: ~200 fps at 10-bit precision; ~136 fps at 12-bit precision.
- Global Shutter: Enables full-sensor readout without rolling shutter distortion.
Comparison with IMX928
While the IMX928 is designed for large-format applications, the IMX929 is smaller, focusing on raw throughput. This shift allows the IMX929 to deliver high frame rates previously unattainable at such resolutions.
Applications of IMX929
The IMX929’s capabilities have practical implications across various fields:
- Technical slow motion captures.
- Accurate motion vector extraction.
- Precision timing in high-speed actions.
- VFX data requiring geometric integrity.
Beyond Cinema Standards
The IMX929 is not classified as a cinema sensor, and its performance diverges from traditional cinematic standards like Super 35. While dynamic range and low-light performance are not its main focus, the sensor excels in precision and speed, catering to industrial imaging applications where these factors are paramount.
Conclusion
With the launch of the IMX929, Sony has pushed the boundaries of what is possible in high-resolution sensors. The ability to combine high pixel counts with exceptional frame rates marks a crucial milestone in sensor technology. As the industry moves closer to uniting high resolution with high-speed performance, the IMX929 stands out as a key innovation from Sony in the realm of global shutter sensors.
