OmniVision claims to have made announced the world’s first automotive-grade, wafer-level camera.

This 1 megapixel (MP) module has a compact size of 6.5 x 6.5mm to provide driver monitoring system (DMS) designers with maximum flexibility on placement within the cabin while remaining hidden from view.

Additionally, it has the lowest power consumption among automotive camera modules—over 50% lower than the nearest competitor—which enables it to run continuously in the tightest of spaces and at the lowest possible temperatures for maximum image quality.

The OVM9284 is built on OmniVision’s OmniPixel3-GS global-shutter pixel architecture, which provides best-in-class quantum efficiency at the 940nm wavelength for the highest quality driver images in near or total darkness.

The integrated OmniVision image sensor has a 3 micron pixel and a 1/4″ optical format, along with 1280 x 800 resolution.

The OVM9284’s integration of OmniVision’s image sensor, signal processor and wafer-level optics in a single compact package reduces the complexity of dealing with multiple vendors, and increases supply reliability while speeding development time.

Furthermore, unlike traditional cameras, all CameraCubeChip modules are reflowable.

This means they can be mounted to a printed circuit board simultaneously with other components using automated surface-mount assembly equipment, which increases quality while reducing assembly costs.