MagnaChip Semiconductor Ltd., a leading global designer, developer and manufacturer of image sensor solutions, mixed-signal and digital multimedia semiconductors, today, announced the launch of a high-performance 1.3 megapixel (1280 x 1024) CMOS image sensor SOC (MC511DA) for the camera phone application market.

The MC511DA allows for excellent low-light performance in a 1/4" optical format. Through the use of optimized image processing, including special lens correction algorithms, and optimized die and micro-lens layout, MagnaChip is able to offer a 2.8um pixel (1/4" format) SOC sensor that can achieve very low z-height modules, while maintaining a higher level of image quality than comparable 2.2um pixel products.

The MC511DA operates at 15 frames per second (fps) at full-resolution and up to 30 fps at VGA resolution. The chip has low 140mW power dissipation for full-resolution, full-frame rate operation. The 8-bit YUV output interfaces to all standard processors, and base-band solutions. The output interface operates between 1.7V and 3.1V while digital and analog supply voltages are 1.8V and 2.8V respectively.

The MC511DA includes a sophisticated processing system to achieve the best possible 1.3MP pictures. This includes a proprietary adaptive image pipeline which optimizes color, gamma and other aspects of the image depending on the results of a sophisticated auto-white balance analysis. This adaptive image pipeline allows more DSC-like image performance in difficult scenes such as heavily backlit or monochromatic environments. In addition, the lens correction and compensation algorithms ensure high image quality even with lower quality optics, allowing for a reduced system cost.

Jason Hartlove, Senior Vice President and General Manager of the Imaging Solutions Division of MagnaChip stated, "MagnaChip's MC511DA addresses the 1.3MP dilemma by providing the best possible low light performance while maintaining a small form factor. The MC511DA offers unique value by enabling small size modules and superb low-light performance in a single solution. The MC511DA offers a highly integrated 1.3MP SOC solution for use in all leading edge 1.3MP applications."

Hartlove continued, "2006 is the year when we will see the high volume mainstream of the camera phone market at the 1.3MP resolution node. This single chip integrated system solution allows OEMs to affordably upgrade their VGA solutions to 1.3MP. The MC511DA offers ease of use, competitive pricing and best in class performance, and with the 1/4" optical format, it can be used to make a module the same size or smaller than last year's VGA modules which will be upgraded to megapixel."

Samples are now available of the 1.3 megapixel image sensor, with mass production expected to begin early in the second quarter of 2006. MagnaChip has a complete suite of demonstration systems and reference designs to support OEMs in end product development.

About MagnaChip Semiconductor

MagnaChip Semiconductor is a leading designer, developer and manufacturer of mixed-signal and digital multimedia semiconductors addressing the convergence of consumer electronics and communications devices. We focus on CMOS image sensors and flat panel display drivers, which are complex, high performance, mixed signal semiconductors that capture images and enable and enhance the features and capabilities of both small and large flat panel displays. MagnaChip also provides wafer foundry services utilizing CMOS high voltage, embedded memory, analog and power process technologies for the manufacture of IC's for customer-owned designs. MagnaChip has world-class manufacturing capabilities and an extensive portfolio of approximately 12,300 registered and pending patents. As a result, MagnaChip is a valued partner in providing leading technology solutions to its customers worldwide. For more information, visit http://www.magnachip.com.

CONTACTS:

In Korea: In the U.S.:

Youngjae Chang, PR Manager David Pasquale, EVP at The Ruth Group

Tel: 82-2-3459-5884 Tel: +646-536-7006

youngjae.chang@magnachip.com dpasquale@theruthgroup.com

Source: prnewswire