North American Image and Optoelectronic Color Sensors Markets

Abstract

Integrated Solutions on Single Sensor Chip Drives Image Sensors Market Revenues

The several design and technological improvements implemented in complementary metal-oxide semiconductor (CMOS) image sensors are expected to increase their demand as components of consumer electronics and automobiles. The ability of CMOS image sensors to enable very large-scale integration and provide all camera functions on a single chip eliminates the need for additional support-chip packaging and/or assembly, thus lowering cost. Manufacturers are increasingly offering higher levels of integration by incorporating digital signal processing (DSPs), and/or integrated signal processing (ISPs). Innovative features such as multiple color filters that allow the conversion of JPEG images on the sensor spur sales.

This new research service from Frost & Sullivan analyzes the North American image and optoelectronic color sensors market and provides an analysis of drivers and restraints that are expected to affect sales. The in-depth survey of the end-user segments along with a comparison of revenues by product type and geographic region provides strategic insight into this growing and dynamic market.

Further Innovation of Mobile Phone Cameras Spurs Sales

"The emergence of third-generation (3G) mobile phone technology is expected to increase the demand for more reliable and cost-effective CMOS image sensors," says the analyst of this research. With a nationwide penetration rate of wireless services of more than 46 percent, mobile phone manufacturers are introducing an array of imaging-enabled products.

"At present, the key differentiators for imaging in the mobile phone market are reduced cost, low power, and size," adds the analyst. By utilizing CMOS image sensors, designers can have high levels of integration and low-power operation that are ideal for this emerging class of applications. The system cost can be reduced by the ease with which support circuitry can be integrated with a CMOS image sensor.

Automotive Applications Boost Demand for CMOS Image Sensors

As more safety standards are imposed in the automotive industry and more automobile manufacturers begin to upgrade cars, market revenues for image sensors are expected to increase since their low cost and design capabilities make them ideal for these applications. Between 10 and 25 CMOS-based sensors and cameras are expected to be installed per vehicle by 2005.

CMOS are used in automotive applications such as face recognition, blind spot detection, rear-view mirrors, and rain detectors for windshield wipers. The intelligent airbag system, designed to gauge the position and the size of the occupant accurately, is expected to generate immediate revenues for manufacturers.