Micro Solid State Low Light Level Camera

Continuous improvements in solid state low light level imaging have led to various approaches in meeting the demanding light level imaging requirements for night vision. Recent improvements in CMOS technology have provided the basis for a monolithic CMOS Imaging Sensor (CIS) that meets those demanding requirements. Powered by a multi-billion dollar consumer market, where performance requirements can be equally demanding as those for military applications in terms of pixel size, power and sensitivity, this low light level CIS technology is advancing at an accelerated pace. To image with high definition under overcast starlight level conditions, low dark current, high NIR sensitivity and low read noise are mandatory. With new CMOS technology break throughs and system-on-chip integration the proposed monolithic CMOS sensor shall provide an electronic equivalent of the Gen III I2 tube with digital video output and a production volume cost of less than $500.