Japan : STMicroelectronics has introduced a new high-performance, stand-alone Image Signal Processor with dual-camera support that brings DSC-like performance to mobile imaging applications. Capable of controlling the entire imaging subsystem in a mobile phone, ST’s newest digital image processor supports a wide range of camera modules including SMIA-compatible (Standard Mobile Imaging Architecture) sensors with up to 5-megapixel resolution.

The STv0986 mobile imaging processor implements a fully-featured image correction chain (from noise reduction to smooth digital zoom) and includes a dedicated hardware JPEG encoder with programmable quantization tables and compression factors. Theadvanced processing algorithms enable the STv0986 to deliver images of exceptional quality. The image signal processor supports special image-orientation effects such us mirroring, flip and rotation, as well as color features including sepia (brown-shade) and black & white.

The STv0986 supports continuous video streaming rates of up to 20 (12.5) frames per second at 3 (5) mega-pixel resolution, making the implementation of multi-shot, best picture and anticipation acquisition modes very straightforward. In the anticipation mode, the camera takes snapshots before and after the shutter button is pressed, allowing the user to select their preferred shot from a sequence of pictures.

The STv0986’s unique twin-video-processing pipe architecture eliminates ‘shutter’ delay to ensure that the still image captured matches the current viewfinder frame – what you see is what you get. The dual-pipeline architecture also delivers a true full-frame rate camcorder mode with simultaneous local viewfinder support and video capture through an optional 4x smooth digital true zoom.

The advanced autofocus (AF) control loop enables the STV0986 to provide still and video autofocus with a very fast lock time of 0.6 seconds. The AF system is able to control various actuator technologies including voice-coil, piezo and stepper motors. The STv0986 provides support for image stabilization through a combination of automatic light-sensitivity control (Auto-ISO control) and best-picture identification. ST also offers full system support for LED or Xenon flash solutions.

In addition to mobile phones, the STv0986 is suitable for use in PDAs, mobile games, security cameras and video phones.

The STv0986 can be combined with ST’s camera modules to create a complete mobile imaging system. A possible two-camera configuration includes ST’s newest image signal processor  in combination with the VB6851, a SMIA-compliant QXGA auto-focus camera with best-in-class module size (8.5x8.5x5.9mm) and image quality, and the VS6555, an ultra-low power VGA reflowable camera module with the lens design optimized for video conferencing applications.

The STv0986 mobile imaging processor is in volume production now, with samples priced at $4.