Sony Exmor, Sony Starvis, and Their Role in Modern Imaging Technology
- Vadzo Imaging
- Jan 11, 2024
- 4 min read
The era of CCD sensors is officially behind us, largely because Sony — the world’s leading image sensor manufacturer — has fully embraced CMOS technology. This shift has brought faster shutter speeds, improved low-light performance, and exceptional color accuracy to modern imaging systems. Thanks to this innovation, Sony Exmor and Sony Starvis sensors have become benchmarks in image quality for both professional and consumer applications.
Sony’s continued investment in CMOS sensor development has resulted in cameras capable of delivering crystal-clear detail even in challenging lighting conditions. Whether it’s advanced surveillance, intelligent traffic monitoring, or high-end photography, these sensors represent Sony’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of imaging technology.
What is the Sony Exmor Sensor?
The Sony Exmor sensor series represents one of the most advanced imaging solutions in the market. Designed for use in everything from professional cameras to smartphones, Sony Exmor technology combines excellent light sensitivity, high image quality, and rapid image processing.
Over time, the Exmor lineup evolved, with the Exmor R series marking a significant leap forward. By switching from the Front-Side Illuminated (FSI) design to Back-Side Illuminated (BSI) architecture, Exmor R sensors doubled light sensitivity and improved low-light imaging performance.
In a BSI design, the wiring layer is moved behind the photodiodes, eliminating light obstruction and allowing more photons to reach the sensor’s active area. This leads to higher quantum efficiency and better overall image clarity, particularly in dim lighting.
What is the Sony Starvis Sensor?
Sony’s Starvis is a back-illuminated pixel technology designed for CMOS image sensors, primarily in surveillance applications. It is engineered to capture high-quality images in both visible and near-infrared light, even at low illumination levels.
Starvis technology achieves a sensitivity of 2000 mV or more per 1μm² under standard conditions (color product, 706cd/m² light source, F5.6, 1-second accumulation). This enhanced sensitivity means security cameras can capture critical details at night or in low-light environments, with reduced noise and minimal motion blur.
Thanks to its design, Starvis is a preferred choice for indoor and outdoor surveillance cameras, delivering sharp, accurate images and improving the reliability of security footage.
The Stacked Power of Sony Exmor RS
Pushing innovation further, Sony introduced the Exmor RS, a CMOS image sensor with a stacked architecture. This design places the pixel section (including the back-illuminated pixels) over a separate chip dedicated to signal processing. The result is more compact sensors with larger effective areas, enabling features like phase detection autofocus and HDR video recording without compromising image quality.
The stacked structure also allows Sony Exmor RS sensors to deliver superior performance for high-speed shooting, making them ideal for advanced photography, sports broadcasting, and industrial imaging.
Structural Differences Between Sony Starvis, Exmor, Exmor R, and Exmor RS
While Sony Exmor sensors originally used the FSI architecture, Exmor R and Starvis employ BSI technology for improved low-light performance. Here’s the breakdown:
Exmor (FSI):
On-chip microlens
Color filters
Metal wiring
Light receiving surface
Photodiodes
Exmor R / Starvis (BSI):
On-chip microlens
Color filters
Light receiving surface
Photodiodes
Metal wiring
By relocating the wiring behind the photodiodes, BSI designs eliminate light blockage and improve sensitivity. Starvis enhances this further with increased NIR (Near-Infrared) sensitivity.
Exmor RS builds on the Exmor R design but incorporates a stacked architecture, enabling additional functionality in a smaller footprint.
Applications of Sony Exmor and Starvis Sensors
The versatility of Sony Exmor and Starvis sensors makes them suitable for a wide range of imaging applications, particularly in embedded vision systems:
Surveillance Systems – Low-light sensitivity is crucial for security cameras that operate at night or in dim environments. Sony Starvis and Sony Exmor sensors excel in capturing high-detail images with low noise, ensuring clear footage for monitoring and investigations.
Intelligent Traffic Systems – Used for automatic license plate recognition, vehicle counting, and traffic monitoring, these sensors offer rapid image capture and high accuracy, even at high vehicle speeds.
Sports Broadcasting – Automated sports cameras benefit from the high SNR (Signal-to-Noise Ratio) and low-light capabilities of Sony Exmor and Starvis technology, ensuring sharp, vibrant footage.
Industrial and Machine Vision – From robotics to quality control systems, these sensors provide the clarity and speed necessary for precise visual analysis.
For specialized low-light applications, the IMX291 Low Light 1080P USB Camera is an excellent example of Sony Exmor technology in action.
Sony Starvis vs Sony Exmor – Which is Better for Low Light?
While both are impressive, the choice between Starvis and Sony Exmor depends on the application:
Sony Starvis – Best for extreme low-light conditions, especially in security and surveillance where NIR sensitivity is important.
Sony Exmor (and Exmor R/RS) – Offers a balance of excellent low-light performance, fast autofocus, high dynamic range, and speed, making it suitable for a wider variety of imaging tasks.
Recent trends show both technologies converging toward improved sensitivity, faster processing, and more compact sensor designs. Whether it’s for professional broadcasting or embedded vision projects, both options deliver exceptional imaging capabilities.
Final Word
Sony’s ongoing innovation ensures that Sony Exmor and Starvis sensors remain at the forefront of imaging technology. From the streets monitored by intelligent traffic cameras to the stadiums captured in high-definition broadcasts, these sensors shape how we see the world — literally.
