11-1 A Wide Dynamic Range Image Sensor with Piecewise Linear Characteristics Using Logarithmic response active pixels

Abstract

A CMOS image sensor with wide dynamic range and improved contrast is presented. The proposed sensor uses logarithmic response CMOS active pixels and read-out circuits which partially responses to the exponential of the input. A linear range can be easily set by a reference voltage. The operation is simulated using 0.6/mum CMOS parameters. The linear range is increased by 20dB as the reference voltage is increased by 60mV.