Near-infrared 2.1 megapixel CMOS image sensor improves recognition and information security
 

TOKYO – Toshiba Corporation (TOKYO: 6502) today announced the launch of "T4KE1", a near-infrared 2.1 megapixel (MP) BSI CMOS image sensor that supports iris recognition on mobile devices. Sample shipments start today.
 

In recent years, mobile devices—smart phones, tablets and PCs—have adopted user authentication systems to protect access and information security. Password entry remains the most common, but finger print recognition is also in wide use. Iris recognition is expected to deliver a better, more secure solution, because it offers high level protection without the risk associated with loss or misuse of passwords. Toshiba is meeting this growing market requirement with the introduction of its near-infrared CMOS image sensor for iris recognition.
 

T4KE1 is a 2.1 MP 1.12um BSI CMOS image sensor with a 1/7.3 inch optical format and 60fps at 1080p image output. The new sensor captures images for recognition with higher sensitivity than conventional CMOS image sensors, as it discards the usual color filter in the pixel structure, increasing sensitivity in the near infrared spectrum. A serial interface^[1], widely used in mobile devices, ensures easy integration.
 

Toshiba provides a reference camera module^[2]  with T4KE1 that customers can use for evaluation with their mobile devices. Toshiba also provides design information^[3] for the reference camera module and technical support, which will help customers to shorten development turnaround time and contributes to make thinner and smaller mobile devices .