Help me understand sensor size and type

[Rickoo]

Trying to grasp differences in sensors. Couldn't find anything in the wiki area regarding ways to determine best sensor size for a specific application. Can someone clarify sensor sizing and type or maybe point me somewhere than could explain it in a way simple enough to understand?

 

[crw030]

It might not be completely as simple as it looks but there are a lot of good reviews, side-by-sides etc on this forum to draw some good conclusions. Also check out threads by member @wopi82 for more technical details around the sensors themselves. Read the Cliff Notes, packed with good first-hand notes from the contributors on these forums.

Look for sensors as large as you can afford, don't focus as much on total MP, and look for Starvis/Starlight/Darkfighter cameras which are known to do well in the dark (if that's what you need). You will also want to read up on Focal Length and how the aperture the sensor is looking through controls how much actual light makes it to the sensor (also on this site).

Sensors used in Dahua cams

Periodic Table of Image Sensors

https://www.ptgrey.com/support/downloads/11165 Not all sensors are listed, but it gives a nice overview of sensor types and manufacturers. And it looks cool :D

ipcamtalk.com

New Sony starvis 1/1.2" sensor 4k sensor

Just noticed on the CCTV sensor site the imx485lqj. Same pixle size as the imx327. A 4k with the same night power of the 2mp starvis, yes please. Products Image Sensor for Security & Surveillance | Sony Semiconductor Solutions Corporation

ipcamtalk.com

Dahua Starlight+

Dahua has released 4mp CVI cameras with the starlight+ designation using 1/1.8" sensors. IP versions probably not far off. https://www.dahuasecurity.com/products/productDetail/28077

ipcamtalk.com

 

[mat200]

Trying to grasp differences in sensors. Couldn't find anything in the wiki area regarding ways to determine best sensor size for a specific application. Can someone clarify sensor sizing and type or maybe point me somewhere than could explain it in a way simple enough to understand?

Hi @Rickoo

Remember sensor is just one aspect to consider.

For those of us not building camera circuit boards there's a lot more to consider ( lens, f-stop, processing ability and features, compatibility like ONVIF, fps, ... ) - and perhaps the best resource is to look at the reviews the members are doing on cameras which give a better idea of a more whole picture of what the camera can do.

 

[Rickoo]

So, all other things being equal, would say at 1/1.8 sensor be "better or worse" than a 1/2.5 and for what reasons?

 

[alastairstevenson]

So, all other things being equal, would say at 1/1.8 sensor be "better or worse" than a 1/2.5 and for what reasons?

Yes, better, - for the same number of pixels (ie resolution) because of a larger area per pixel to accumulate charge from impinging light.
With all other things being equal, such as both being back-illuminated (so tracking and active elements don't obscure the light).