Date: 28/09/2010

Ambarella's SoC chip for still and video cameras captures 500Mpixels/second

Ambarella, Inc. has released the A7 system-on-chip (SoC) for hybrid still and video cameras. This chip enables features such as full HD 1080p60 or 4Mp30 H.264 video recording for consumer level cameras, capture capability of 500Mpixels/second and several other features such as smooth slow-motion replay for sports action, high dynamic range (HDR) processing, and best-picture selection from a series of shots. A 528-MHz ARM11 CPU is also provided for connected software applications and for advanced graphics on full size touch-screen displays. It also enables quality images in poor lighting conditions through the combination of high-ISO speed, 3D motion-compensated noise reduction (MCTF) and multiple exposures.

"The A7 raises the bar for both image quality and high-speed capture capabilities," said Fermi Wang, Ambarella CEO. "Consumers can now create an unparalleled photographic and video experience previously only attainable using expensive dedicated professional equipment."

The A7 SoC features an advanced image stabilization, both DIS and EIS, and rolling shutter correction for CMOS sensors. It also features oversampling of image sensor data to enable the cameras to acheive 120x digital zoom with optimal quality. Hardware support is provided for real-time face tracking at full 1080p60 video resolution.

A7 is designed for network-connected cameras and can simultaneously encode a full HD stream while encoding a second stream for upload to the Internet or for streaming over WiFi. The A7's fully-compliant H.264 HD decoder allows it to play back content uploaded from the Internet or captured by other cameras.

Availability: A7 SoC and hybrid camera reference design kit and SDK are available now.