Plessey Image Sensors

I was slow to realize that recently re-built Plymouth and Swindon, UK-based Plessey Semiconductor started to manufacture CMOS image sensors. The Plessey brand has been re-created by combining the former X-fab and Zarlink UK facilities:

"Over 30 different CMOS Image Sensors are manufactured by Plessey ranging in size from <1MP up to wafer-scale sensors. These products demonstrate very low dark currents, high radiation tolerance and high dynamic range. By working closely with our customers, Plessey ensures leading edge performance across a range of market sectors: Automotive, Medical, Dental X-ray, Professional Digital Photography, Industrial Imaging, Gene Sequencing, Space, Security, HD TV cameras... CMOS Image Sensors manufactured by Plessey feature low dark currents, radiation tolerant processes and a range of pixel sizes from 6.7um to 125um. Sensor sizes range from 1/2” optical format to full wafer scale sensor by using 1D or 2D stitching."

Plessey PS50480 VGA sensor features 4.2um 5T global shutter pixel made in 0.18um process. The sensor's spec looks quite nice, except of large PRNU and apparent lack of microlens:

• 5T Pixel Architecture
• 0.18 µm CMOS
• 656 x 488 Pixels
• 4.2 µm x 4.2µm Pixels
• 1/5” Optical format
• 1.8V Digital Power Supply
• 3.3V Analog Power Supply
• Global Shutter
• 120fps at VGA resolution (640 x 480)
• Power Consumption: 400mW
• Full Well Charge 13500 electrons
• Conversion Gain 70 µV/electron
• Spectral response 0.16A/W
• Peak QE * Fillfactor 30%
• Fillfactor 40%
• Dynamic Range 70dB
• Fixed Pattern Noise (local) <0.20%
• PRNU (local) <10%