Canon develops high-sensitivity sensor

Canon has announced the development of a new high-sensitivity, 35mm full-frame CMOS sensor designed exclusively for video recording.

This new CMOS sensor features square pixels with a size of 19 microns (7.5 times larger than the pixel area on the CMOS sensor found in the EOS-1D X and other DSLR cameras). The high sensitivity is achieved by increasing the size of the individual pixels and reducing their total number (about two megapixels).

In addition, the pixels and readout circuits employ new technologies that reduce noise, which tends to increase as pixel size increases. Thanks to this and its high sensitivity, it can capture Full HD video in very low-light environments. Tests conducted by Canon have shown that this low light intensity level can be as low as 0.03 lux, or about the brightness of a crescent moon, levels at which it is difficult for our eye to perceive objects.

In this video you can see some examples of the tests carried out by the company using a prototype camera that integrated the new sensor. In the captured videos you can appreciate the differences between recordings with previous sensors and this one, in situations such as a room illuminated by incense sticks (approximately 0.05 – 0.1 lux) or the Geminids meteor shower.

At the moment Canon is looking at future applications for the new sensor, and although they are more oriented towards astronomical observation, medical research support and surveillance equipment, it is quite likely that they will be used in night scenes in film and television productions. We will have to wait to learn more about the cameras that will incorporate the new CMOS and the release of the new CMOS.