Image sensor with active sensor elements

The present invention relates in general to an image sensor with active sensor elements, more in particular to a CMOS image sensor. An image pick-up includes a number of active sensor elements () arranged in an array and a number of conductive lines extending over the surface of the array for the tr...

Ausführliche Beschreibung

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Bibliographische Detailangaben
1. Verfasser: Kole, Marcus Egbert
Format: Patent
Sprache:eng
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Beschreibung
Zusammenfassung:The present invention relates in general to an image sensor with active sensor elements, more in particular to a CMOS image sensor. An image pick-up includes a number of active sensor elements () arranged in an array and a number of conductive lines extending over the surface of the array for the transfer of supply and signals. Each sensor element includes a light sensor () and an amplifier. According to the invention, a reduction in the number of lines can be achieved while functionality is maintained. In a first and a second embodiment (), a sensor element includes a first switch (S) associated with the sensor and a second switch (SS) associated with the amplifier, the switches being controlled by a common control signal. In a third embodiment (), a sensor element includes a series arrangement of a first switch (S) and a second switch (S) included between the sensor and a supply line. In a fourth embodiment (), a select signal is also used as a supply for the amplifier.