High Dynamic Range: CMOS Camera Technologies

This lecture discusses the technical aspects of high dynamic range in CCD and CMOS cameras. It begins with an explanation of dynamic range, defined as the ratio of maximum signal to noise. The instructor highlights the importance of achieving low noise and high saturation for optimal dynamic range. Various camera types are compared, noting that good CCD sensors can achieve a dynamic range of 60 dB, while scientific-grade CCDs can reach 120 dB. The lecture then delves into noise reduction techniques, emphasizing the use of thin oxide PMOS transistors in pixel design to minimize noise. The instructor explains the relationship between pixel size and full well capacity, illustrating how larger pixels can enhance dynamic range. Solutions for improving dynamic range are presented, including multi-exposure techniques and the implementation of logarithmic sensors. The lecture concludes with a discussion on the design simplicity of logarithmic sensors, which can achieve a dynamic range of six orders of magnitude without significant design changes.