Jan 7 2010
Ambarella, Inc., a leader in low-power, high-definition video compression and image processing semiconductors, today announced the availability of the A5s system-on-a-chip (SoC), extending its product portfolio for the fast-growing, multi-million unit-per-year market for pocket-sized hybrid cameras.
This latest innovation builds on the success of the A5 platform and offers an enriched user experience enabled by 45nm CMOS process technology, which provides higher speed, higher integration, a smaller footprint, and lower power than previous 65 nm-generation designs. The new A5s delivers full high-definition (HD) recording, 14 Megapixels (MP) of still photography, and the ability to capture HD and internet video simultaneously. A 533-MHz ARM11 CPU and enhanced graphic capabilities enable a new class of lifestyle cameras with features such as a smart-touch screen, intuitive graphic user interface, and wireless networking.
The low-power design combined with Ambarella’s unique image sensor processing and H.264 compression technology assures long battery life and high-quality, HD capture of everyday activities. Sophisticated spatio-temporal filters reduce noise without causing blur to deliver clearer images, especially noticeable in low-light indoor scenes. For high-contrast and outdoor scenes, Ambarella’s automatic local exposure correction adjusts each pixel to highlight sharp details from areas that otherwise would be over- or underexposed.
“By incorporating a flexible, low-power processor with Megapixel photography, HD and internet video capture, the A5s enables a true mass-market camera,” said Fermi Wang, Ambarella CEO. “It fits the mobile consumer lifestyle, is fun to use, and leverages Ambarella’s strategy to bring rapid innovation and top-notch image quality to an increasingly demanding market.”
Targeting the expanding market of pocket-sized lifestyle cameras, the A5s platform represents an industry breakthrough in value and functionality for high-quality still and full HD video performance. Ambarella expects that full HD consumer hybrid cameras based on the A5s platform will be priced at or under the critical US $149 end-user price threshold in 2010.
The A5s family consists of three products: A5s25, A5s30 and A5s50. Each is available with a full reference design. The A5s25 integrated circuit can capture 10 MP still pictures as well as generate and compress high-definition video in both 720p60 and 1080p30 formats. The A5s30 enables burst recording of 8 MP still images at 30 frames per second with appropriate sensors. The A5s50 supports the standard interlaced HD broadcast format 1080i60 optimized for display on TV.