Modern cameras use image sensors to capture images. These sensors are sophisticated electronic components that convert light into electrical signals. Vilnius experts explain how these sensors work and what the main types are.
Main types of image sensors
There are two main types of image sensors on the market: cCD (Charge-Coupled Device) and CMOS (Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor). Although both types of sensors perform the same function, they have different operating principles and advantages.
CCD sensors
CCD sensors were the first widely used sensors in digital cameras. They offer high image quality and good low-light performance. CCD sensors work by transferring electrical charges from one sensor element to another until they reach the edge of the sensor, where they are converted into a digital signal.
CMOS sensors
CMOS sensors are a newer technology that currently dominates the market. They are energy efficient and cheaper to produce than CCD sensors. Each pixel of a CMOS sensor has its own amplifier and can directly convert light into a digital signal, making data processing faster.
How the sensor pixels work
The surface of the camera's sensor is covered with millions of tiny light-sensitive elements called pixels. Each pixel records the intensity of light, which is then converted into an electrical signal. These signals are processed by the camera's processor to produce the final image.
Light filters and colour reproduction
The sensors use colour filters to enable the camera to capture colour images. The most common is the Bayer filter matrix, which allows each pixel to capture only one of the three main colours: red, green or blue. The camera software then combines this data to create a full colour image.
Sensor size and image quality
The size of the sensor is one of the most important factors in determining the quality of the final image. Larger sensors can capture more light and detail, so they tend to give better image quality, especially in low light conditions. This is why professional photographers often opt for cameras with larger sensors.
The image sensors in cameras are sophisticated devices that have a significant impact on the final image result. Knowing how they work can help you better understand the capabilities of different cameras and help you choose the right one for your needs.