Low-power camera solution for 1080p video streaming over WiFi

A highly optimised IoT video reference design is the trio’s first collaboration. The GS-AR0330-based Full HD Video, available via GainSpan and its distributors, targets smart 1080p video streaming over WiFi. Through wireless connectivity, it can interface seamlessly with smartphones that use either iOS or Android operating systems.

The solution comprises all of the hardware and software needed for engineers to quickly and simply add video streaming capabilities into their IoT-based designs, thereby facilitating the development process and accelerating time to market. The video reference design is accompanied by a complete software suite, plus a series of sophisticated mobile application programming interfaces.

Central to this solution is ON Semiconductor’s AR0330 1/3" optical format CMOS image sensor, which delivers superior imaging quality in low light conditions. Using its 2304x1296 active-pixel array, this device has the capacity to capture 3MP still images. It also incorporates advanced on-chip camera features, such as column/row subsampling, windowing, mirroring and snapshot modes.

The video reference design’s processing resource offers H.264 encoding/compression thanks to its high performance, ultra-low power multi-mode SoC. This can deal with 1080p HD resolution image content at 60fps, as well as supporting auto white balance, auto exposure and auto focus functions. By detecting movement, the on-board passive infrared sensor can be utilised for rapid wake up of the system from standby, so that video streaming can begin.

“This cooperative agreement with GainSpan and GEO Semiconductor, and the products that will be derived from it, will have considerable positive impact on the IoT sector. The attributes that each company brings to the partnership complements each other perfectly,” states Radhika Arora, IoT Product Line Manager, Automotive Imaging and Scanning Division, ON Semiconductor. “This allows us to fully capitalise upon the possibilities for video-enabled IoT implementations, in home automation, security, smart lighting, building access and infant monitoring systems.”

“GEO Semiconductor is pleased to partner with GainSpan and ON Semiconductor to enable system solutions for emerging markets where low power and high quality video are key requirements. GEO anticipates rapid adoption of these jointly developed solutions for the IoT marketplace,” says Kent Goodin, Vice President & General Manager of Consumer Products, GEO Semiconductor.

“GainSpan is thrilled to partner with ON Semiconductor and GEO Semiconductor to provide low-power wireless video platforms,” says Richard Najarian, GainSpan Senior Director, Solutions Marketing. “Video-based device manufacturers can now leverage the platform integration advantages to greatly speed up development of their IoT video devices.”