OmniVision Technologies Inc. has introduced the OV7949, an analog CMOS image sensor designed for use as an automotive camera chip. Based on OmniVision's proprietary OmniPixel architecture, the sensor is said to offer excellent low-light sensitivity and significantly reduced blooming, so that the brightness of lights in front of the sensor do not blur or disturb the image.

Hasan Gadjali, vice president of advanced products, said a reduced blooming capability is important for rearview cameras that need to be able to 'see' even when faced with bright headlights of trailing vehicles, and for “black box” cameras that are used to document accidents for liability or insurance purposes.

The OV7949 is an enhanced, pin-compatible PQFP packaged upgrade to the OV7940, which OmniVision introduce last year. It has an operating temperature range of -40 °C to 105 °C and conforms to AEC-Q100 criteria.