NEC CE151 SoC chip improves Camera Phones

NEC Electronics has introduced its new camera engine 151 (CE151) system-on-chip (SoC), an image processing device for camera phones to provide clear and high-quality images comparable to digital-still cameras (DSCs). In 2007, NEC Electronics launched the CE131 SoC, which provided the eight- megapixel mobile-phone market segment with accumulated shipments exceeding 30 million units. NEC Electronics also introduced the CE143 SoC in 2009, which enabled processing of 12-Megapixel images and full high-definition (HD) video. To continue this success, the new CE151 SoC provides advanced picture quality, performance, and functions for still images and video data, using even lower power consumption.

Main features of the CE151 SoC
+ Further improved noise-reduction function
+ Lowered power consumption by approximately 25 percent
+ Supports SpeedTags technology to eliminate shutter lag
+ Further improved image-stabilizing function

The new CE151 SoC allows mobile phones to output full-HD (1080-pixel) video stream and still image data up to 13 megapixels received by the CMOS sensor. The Camera Engine Software Platform is designed for re-usability with a rich and easy-to-use command-layer application-programming interface (API). Backward compatibility with previous NEC Electronics' CE series supports a smooth transition for existing customers to reach a new height in camera performance and functionality in mobile phones.

Samples of CE151 SoC are available now with pricing of US $40 per unit (additional charge for technical support). The projected total monthly production of 1.0 million units is scheduled by April 2010. Pricing and availability are subject to change.

NEC Electronics will exhibit the CE151 SoC in a demonstration in NEC's booth (Hall 8, Stand 8A125) at the Mobile World Congress 2010 (MWC 2010) to be held in Barcelona, Spain from February 15 to 18, 2010.