CCD vs. CMOS Image Sensors

The image sensor for the 4XEM IP Network Cameras is responsible for transforming light into electrical signals. This process is otherwise known as the capturing of images digitally. When choosing an IP Network Camera for your desired application, you will need to decide on which image sensor suits your needs best. There are two possible technologies to choose from for the camera's image sensor. Both CCD and CMOS feature there own strengths and weaknesses that make them more appropriate for different applications. Although there are differences between the two technologies, neither is drastically superior or inferior to the other.

CCD - Charge Coupled Device

The CCD image sensor offers superior image performance and flexibility at the expense of system size. System Size is greater when compared to CMOS. CCD image sensors feature better light sensitivity when directly compared to CMOS image sensors. As a result, the higher light sensitivity translates into better images in low light conditions. However, bright objects can cause the CCD image sensor to "Bleed" causing vertical stripes on screen. This side effect is referred to as the "Smear" effect. The CCD image sensor remains the more popular of the two technologies because of the higher picture quality level. However, for entry level applications and when cost is a concern, the CMOS image sensor is the preferred choice. CCD image sensors should be used in applications demanding the highest image quality achievable.

CMOS - Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor

The CMOS image sensor offers integration of added circuitry on a single chip, lower power usage (up to ~1/10 the usage) and a more compact design at the expense of image quality and flexibility. As a result of this, CMOS image sensors are cheaper to manufacture and are usually sold at a lower cost. Also, the smaller system size allows for smaller cameras to be designed. In recent years the gap in image quality between CCD and CMOS image sensors has narrowed greatly. But, when the highest image quality is required, the CCD image sensor is still regarded as the preferred choice. CMOS image sensors are currently limited in low light conditions. With low light conditions the CMOS image sensor can produce either a very dark image or a very noisy image. CMOS image sensors are more susceptible to noise which can create interference or distortion in the image. CMOS image sensors should be used for high-volume, space-constrained applications where obtaining the highest image quality possible is not necessarily vital to the application.