Toshiba has started sample shipments of a VGA, 1/4 inch CMOS image sensor - TCM5126GBA - for automotive view cameras.

The TCM5126GBA integrates a high dynamic range (HDR) function that reproduces high quality images of objects backlit by the sun and vehicle headlights. The product has a small chip-size package (CSP) combined with through-silicon via (TSV) technology. This reduces the size by 30% against equivalent products and will contribute to the downsizing of view camera systems.

The sensor also incorporates a picture flip function that can flip output images horizontally and vertically, an on-screen display function that outputs preliminary-set parking guidelines together with the image, and a zoom function for use in rear view cameras in parking assist systems. The built-in timer function sustains output of images when the gear stick is shifted from reverse to forward, allowing drivers to see a continuous movie when reversing into a parking space. The stand alone operation support (SAOS) function makes the sensor operate automatically when power is supplied without external microcontrollers, and will contribute to simplification of view camera systems.