Originally Published MPMN July 2003

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Digital Imaging Firmware Improves Real-Time Video Applications

Resolution and color fidelity are increased over traditional cameras and imagers

New image-processing firmware enhances resolution and speed in real-time applications. The KSC-3000 processor, developed by Eastman Kodak Co. (Rochester, NY), complements the firm's KAI-1020CM interline CCD image sensor. The 1-megapixel sensor captures images at video rates of 30 frames per second. Used together, they can convert images from raw Bayer digital color data into 24-bit RGB color output. Real-time imaging in endoscopy, microscopy, and machine vision systems would benefit. 

Most digital video imagers use a single-color image sensor. Only one color value is assigned per pixel. Software is then used to determine the missing values to createa full-color image. However, low resolution and processing speed often impair the qualityof the picture. The KSC-3000 increases resolution and frame rates by providing the processing horsepower to convert megapixel raw data into 24-bit RGB at 30 frames per second. 

According to Helen Titus, worldwide marketing manager at Eastman Kodak Co., the sensor-processor combination "provides customers with a strong advantage over traditional interlaced VGA (640 ¥ 480) video cameras and imagers. They cannot achieve comparable resolution or color fidelity."

"Together, these offerings deliver significantly increased vertical resolution that eliminates motion artifacts or jagged lines caused by interlaced video," adds Titus.

Firmware controls can be customized to better control image processing. These controls include point-defect correction, white balancing, color interpolation, color correction, and gamma correction. 

Eastman Kodak Co.
11633 Sorrento Valley Rd.
San Diego, CA 92121
tel: 619/481-8182

Rita Emmanouilidou

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