With a smaller pixel size combined with backside illuminated technology, Sony was able to increase resolutions within compact sensor sizes without sacrificing imaging quality with their 4th generation Pregius sensors - named "Pregius S". But do these latest sensors mean you should disregard previous generations? Take a deep dive and discover the strengths that each generation has to offer. Sony 4th Generation Pregius S™ - The Next Evolution of Image Sensors? Lucid Tech Brief Sony Pregius S 4th Generation Sensors

Sony 4th Generation "Pregius S": The Next Evolution of Image Sensors?

With a smaller pixel size combined with backside illuminated technology, Sony was able to increase resolutions within compact sensor sizes without sacrificing imaging quality with their 4th generation Pregius sensors – named “Pregius S”. But do these latest sensors mean you should disregard previous generations? Take a deep dive and discover the strengths that each generation has to offer.

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In the Beginning...

In 2013, Sony released their first Pregius™ CMOS sensor, the 2.3 MP IMX174. Before the release, CCD sensors were the market leaders with higher resolutions, superior image quality, and global shutter readout. CMOS sensors, while offering lower prices and higher frame rates, suffered from poorer imaging performance and offered only rolling shutter readout. The release of the IMX174 changed all of this. The IMX174 CMOS sensor ushered in not only better image quality with higher quantum efficiency, higher dynamic range, and lower read noise but it also offered global shutter readout and a higher frame rate output compared to equivalent CCDs at the time. With the continued addition of more global shutter Pregius sensors, now spanning across 4 generations, users have a wide selection of sensors to choose from.

Table of Contents

There are now 4 generations of Sony Pregius CMOS sensors, with the 4th generation being branded “Pregius S”. While each generation offers improvements from the previous one, certain features from older generations can still outperform later ones. Depending on what type of resolution, frame rate, image quality performance, or sensor feature you’re looking for, will dictate which generation is the most appropriate.

Triton Models with 4th Gen Pregius S sensors:

ModelsMPResolutionFake FPSFPSSensorFormatPixel SizeShutterLens MountChromaInterface
TRI245S24.5 MP5320 x 4600 px14.9 fpsSony IMX540 CMOS4/3"2.74 µmGlobalCMono / ColorM12 GigE Vision
TRI204S20.4 MP4510 x 4510 px26 fpsSony IMX541 CMOS1.1"2.74 µmGlobalCMono / ColorM12 GigE Vision
TRI162S16.2 MP5320 x 3040 px47.5 fpsSony IMX542 CMOS1.1"2.74 µmGlobalCMono / ColorM12 GigE Vision
TRI124S12.3MP4096 x 3000 px59.5 fpsSony IMX545 CMOS1/1.1"2.74 µmGlobalCMono / ColorM12 GigE Vision
TRI081S8.1 MP2840 x 2840 px614.8 fpsSony IMX546 CMOS2/3″2.74 µmGlobalCMono / ColorM12 GigE Vision
TRI051S 5.0 MP2448 x 2048 px724 fpsSony IMX547 CMOS1/1.8″2.74 µmGlobalCMono / ColorM12 GigE Vision

Triton2 2.5GigE Models with 4th Gen Pregius S sensors:

ModelMPResolutionFPSSensorFormatPixel SizeShutterLens MountChromaInterface
TRT245S24.5 MP5320 x 4600 px11.3 fpsSony IMX540 CMOS1.2"2.74 µmGlobalCMono / Color2.5GigE M12
TRT204S20.4 MP4504 x 4504 px13.5 fpsSony IMX541 CMOS1.1"2.74 µmGlobalCMono / Color2.5GigE M12
TRT162S16.2 MP5320 x 3040 px17.5 fpsSony IMX542 CMOS1.1"2.74 µmGlobalCMono / Color2.5GigE M12
TRT124S12.3 MP4096 x 3000 px21.7 fpsSony IMX545 CMOS1/1.1"2.74 µmGlobalCMono / Color2.5GigE M12
TRT081S8.1 MP2840 x 2840 px31.8 fpsSony IMX546 CMOS2/3″2.74 µmGlobalCMono / Color2.5GigE M12
TRT051S5.0 MP2448 x 2048 px49.2 fpsSony IMX547 CMOS1/1.8″2.74 µmGlobalCMono / Color2.5GigE M12

Atlas IP67 5GigE Models with 4th Gen Pregius S sensors:

ModelsMPResolutionFake FPSFPSSensorFormatPixel SizeShutterLens MountChromaGigE Vision Interface
ATP245S24.5 MP5320 x 4600 px122.7 fpsSony IMX540 CMOS4/3"2.74 µmGlobalC-mountMono / Color5GBASE-T, M12
ATP204S20.4 MP4504 x 4504 px227.3 fpsSony IMX541 CMOS1.1"2.74 µmGlobalC-mountMono / Color5GBASE-T, M12
ATP162S16.2 MP5320 x 3032 px434.4 fpsSony IMX542 CMOS1.1"2.74 µmGlobalC-mountMono / Color5GBASE-T, M12
ATP124S12.3 MP4096 x 3000 px542.5 fpsSony IMX545 CMOS1/1.1"2.74 µmGlobalC-mountMono / Color5GBASE-T, M12
ATP081S8.1 MP2840 x 2840 px868.8 fpsSony IMX546 CMOS2/3″2.74 µmGlobalC-mountMono / Color5GBASE-T, M12
ATP051S5.0 MP2448 x 2048 px10110 fpsSony IMX547 CMOS1/1.8″2.74 µmGlobalC-mountMono / Color5GBASE-T, M12

Atlas10 10GigE Models with 4th Gen Pregius S sensors:

ModelMPResolutionFPSSensorFormatPixel SizeShutterLens MountChromaInterface
ATX245S24.5 MP5320 x 4600 px45.4 fpsSony IMX530 CMOS1.2"2.74 µmGlobalTFL / C-MountMono / Color10GBASE-T, M12
ATX204S20.4 MP4504 x 4504 px54.1 fpsSony IMX531 CMOS1.1"2.74 µmGlobalC-MountMono / Color10GBASE-T, M12
ATX162S16.2 MP5320 x 3032 px76.1 fpsSony IMX532 CMOS1.1"2.74 µmGlobalC-MountMono / Color10GBASE-T, M12
ATX124S12.3 MP4096 x 3000 px89.7 fpsSony IMX535 CMOS1/1.1″2.74 µmGlobalC-MountMono / Color10GBASE-T, M12
ATX081S8.1 MP2840 x 2840 px136.7 fpsSony IMX536 CMOS2/3″2.74 µmGlobalC-MountMono / Color10GBASE-T, M12
ATX051S5.0 MP2448 x 2048 px205 fpsSony IMX537 CMOS1/1.82.74 µmGlobalC-MountMono / Color10GBASE-T, M12

Are you looking for instructions on how to access and use 4th generation Pregius sensor features on LUCID cameras? Visit our KB article New 4th Gen Pregius Features (link goes to our dev.support.thinklucid.com site) and learn how to access features using LUCID’s ArenaView software.

Sony 4th Generation "Pregius S": Backside Illuminated (BSI)

The photodiode is closer to the microlens creating wider incident angle. This improves light collection. Smaller pixel size of 2.74µm allows higher resolutions into smaller sensor sizes. Wiring and circuit layers are all moved below the photodiode. This reduces obstructions and improves light collection. Sony BSI Pixel Structure Conventional Pixel Structure Wider angle for light entry Back Illuminated Pixel structure Sony Microlens for Pregius S IMX530 Wiring Layer 2 IMX530 Wiring Layer 2 IMX540 Wiring Layer Backsided illuminated Sensor Back Illuminated Pixel structure IMX540 Wiring Layer IMX530 Wiring Layer 2 IMX530 Wiring Layer 2 IMX540 Wiring Layer Sony Microlens for Pregius S

Wider Incident Angle = Better Light Sensitivity

Even with a smaller pixel size, 4th generation Pregius S sensors maintain comparable sensitivity thanks in part to improved lowered incident angle performance. For example, at +/-20°, 2nd generation sensors receive just 10% of the light coming to the pixel, but 4th generation sensors receive 40%. This is because the distance between the microlens and the photodiode surface is much closer for 4th generation sensors.

2nd Gen Pregius (3.45µm) 4th Gen Pregius S (2.74µm) Sony-Pregius-4th-Gen-Incident-Angle-graph Sony-Pregius-4th-Gen-Incident-Angle-results Sony-Pregius-3rd-Gen-Incident-Angle-results

Resolutions: High Speed and Standard Speed

The very first generation included only 1 resolution – 1936 x 1216 (2.3MP). This resolution however was available in two frame rate variations: high speed and standard speed. The high speed IMX174 ran at a maximum frame rate of 166 FPS while the standard speed IMX249 ran at a reduced 41 FPS. For a reduced price, the standard speed variations would limit maximum frame rates and restrict ADC, binning, and ROI options while maintaining the same image quality performance as the high speed variations. Sony would continue this trend of offering high speed and standard speed variations as future generations and models were released.

The lists and plot chart below illustrated the overall Pregius landscape regarding megapixel and frame rate sensor models. Each generation has various models, each with a different resolution and frame rate. While a few models from different generations overlap one another, a deeper dive into each generation’s pixel technology will help differentiate why certain models overlap.

Generation 1

High Speed Standard Speed
IMX174 (2.3MP @ 166 FPS) IMX249 (2.3MP @ 41 FPS)

* Note: the maximum frame rates presented on these charts are based on Sony’s listed maximum frame rate specification for the sensor. For most high speed versions, the maximum frame rate is based on 8-bit mode. Standard speed maximum frame rates are based on 10-bit or 12-bit mode. Maximum frame rates will vary based on bit depth, camera manufacturer, interface bandwidth, and number of cameras connected to the host PC.

Generation 2

High Speed Standard Speed
IMX342 (31.4MP @ 35 FPS)
IMX367 (19.6MP @ 43 FPS)
IMX387 (16.9MP @ 61 FPS)
IMX253 (12.3MP @ 68 FPS) IMX304 (12.3MP @ 23 FPS)
IMX255 (8.9MP @ 94 FPS) IMX267 (8.9MP @ 32 FPS)
IMX250 (5.0MP @ 163 FPS) IMX264 (5.0MP @ 36 FPS)
IMX252 (3.2MP @ 216 FPS) IMX265 (3.2MP @ 56 FPS)
IMX392 (2.3MP @ 200 FPS)
IMX273 (1.6MP @ 276 FPS) IMX296 (1.6MP @ 60 FPS)
IMX287 (0.4MP @ 523 FPS) IMX297 (0.4MP @ 121 FPS)

Generation 3

High Speed Standard Speed
IMX420 (7.1MP @ 207 FPS) IMX428 (7.1MP @ 35 FPS)
IMX421 (2.8MP @ 409 FPS) IMX429 (2.8MP @ 43 FPS)
IMX422 (2.0MP @ 477 FPS) IMX430 (2.0MP @ 132 FPS)
IMX425 (1.7MP @ 662 FPS) IMX432 (1.7MP @ 98 FPS)

Generation 4

High Speed Standard Speed
IMX530 (24.5MP @ 106 FPS) IMX540 (24.5MP @ 35 FPS)
IMX531 (20.4MP @ 109 FPS) IMX541 (20.4MP @ 42 FPS)
IMX532 (16.2MP @ 159 FPS) IMX542 (16.2MP @ 52 FPS)
IMX535 (12.4MP @ 184 FPS) IMX545 (12.4MP @ 68 FPS)
IMX536 (8.1MP @ 194 FPS) IMX546 (8.1MP @ 91 FPS)
IMX537 (5.1MP @ 259 FPS) IMX547 (5.1MP @ 122 FPS)

Sony Pregius Generations – Megapixels vs Max Frame Rate Plot Chart
Hover mouse over plots for sensor details

Pregius MP models vs Max FPS

Balancing Act: Pixel Size & Image Quality

Much of the difference between generations is attributed to pixel size and pixel technology. For each generation, the pixel size is different; 1st generation is 5.86 µm; 2nd generation is 3.45 µm; 3rd generation is 4.5 µm; and 4th generation is 2.74µm. The pixel size will not only determine how many pixels can fit into a specific sensor size, but it will also result in different image quality performance characteristics. Each generation has a unique saturation capacity, temporal read noise, dynamic range and quantum efficiency. In general, the larger the pixel size, the higher the saturation capacity and temporal dark noise. For example, 1st generation sensors have the highest saturation capacity average of 33000e- but also have the highest temporal dark noise of 7e-. Contrast that to 4th generation sensors which have the smallest pixel size and therefore the lowest saturation capacity average of 9500e- and the lowest temporal dark noise of 2.1e-. This proportional relationship between saturation capacity and dark noise is what allows the Pregius sensors to maintain a similar dynamic range of around 70db across the generations even though their pixel sizes are different.

Average EMVA1288 results between Pregius Generations

Comparing Average EMVA1288 Results Against Pixel Size
Hover mouse over plots for details.

Pregius
Generation
Pixel Size		 Avg
Saturation
Capacity		 Saturation
Capacity
(e-/µm^2)		 Avg
Read Noise		 Avg
Dynamic
Range
1st Gen: 5.86µm 33000 e- 961 7 e- 70 dB
2nd Gen: 3.45µm 10500 e- 882 2.3 e- 71 dB
3rd Gen: 4.5µm 25000 e- 1235 5.5 e- 72 dB
4th Gen: 2.74µm 9500 e- 1265 2.1 e- 71 dB

Comparing the quantum efficiency (QE) average of the 4 generations shows some major differences between them. 1st generation Pregius sensors show high peak QE within the 480 to 540nm range. The 2nd generation had lower peak QE but shifted efficiency improvements from 600nm and onward. The 3rd generation brought peak QE back closer to 1st generation results, greatly improving efficiency over the entire range and attaining the best near infrared (700nm to 900nm) performance. 4th generation sensors share similar peak QE performance with 1st generation sensors while offering middle ground performance between 1st and 3rd generation for the rest of the curve. The QE graph highlights each generation’s unique efficiency curve and illustrates that later generations do not necessarily have outright performance gains.

Average Quantum Efficiency results between Pregius Generations

Average Quantum Efficiency of Each Generation
Hover mouse over plots for details. Click legend to turn off/on curves.

Note: The results shown in the QE comparison chart are based on EMVA 1288 testing of industrial camera models with sensor cover glass.

Sensor Sizes & Aspect Ratios

A key benefit of smaller pixel sizes is being able to offer more pixels in a given sensor size. This allows industrial cameras to remain compact and utilize more compact optics such as C-mount, NF, or S-mount lenses. For example, the maximum megapixels offered in a Type 1.1″ sensor size grows higher as pixel size decreases: 3rd generation (4.5µm) sensor is 7.1 MP, 2nd generation (3.45µm) is 12.3 MP, and 4th generation (2.74µm) is 20 MP. For certain applications, it might be possible to retain the optics or lenses when changing to a higher megapixel camera with the same sensor size. In other cases, changing to a different sensor with a different size might mean a complete overhaul of the optical hardware.

The chart below plots the megapixels of various Pregius models against their sensor size. Overall, 4th generation sensors increase megapixel on many sensor sizes compared to previous generations.

Sensor sizes of Pregius generations

Pregius Sensor Sizes vs Megapixels
Hover mouse over plots for sensor details.

Gen 1 Gen 2 Gen 3 Gen 4

 

Aspect Ratio and Sensor Size Comparison.

4th Gen Pregius S 1st Gen Pregius 2nd Gen Pregius 3rd Gen Pregius Sony 1st Generation Aspect Ratios Sony 2nd Generation Aspect Ratios Sony 4th Generation Aspect Ratios Sony 2nd Generation Aspect Ratios Sony 1st Generation Aspect Ratios Sony 4th Gen

Sensor aspect ratios vary greatly between Pregius generations, with each generation offering multiple different ratios. The most common aspect ratio between all generations is the 4:3 ratio. This ratio provides the standard landscape view with the width always being 33% wider than the height. 4th generation sensors offer the second highest variety of aspect rations (1:1, 5:4, 4:3, 16:9) while 2nd generation sensors offer the most (1:1, 5:4, 4:3, 16:10, 16:9, 17:9). In total, Pregius sensors provide 7 different ratios, from square to widescreen, allowing for a broad range of applications usage.

Aspect Ratio and Megapixel List.
Square
1:1		 5:4 4:3 16:11 16:10 16:9 Widescreen
17:9
20.4 MP IMX531 5.0 MP IMX250 31.4 MP IMX342 7.1 MP IMX420 2.3 MP IMX392 16.8 MP IMX387 8.9MP IMX255
20.4 MP IMX541 5.0 MP IMX264 24.5 MP IMX530 7.1 MP IMX428 2.3 MP IMX174 16.2 MP IMX532 8.9MP IMX267
19.6 MP IMX367 5.1 MP IMX537 24.5 MP IMX540 1.7 MP IMX425 2.3 MP IMX249 16.2 MP IMX542
8.1 MP IMX536 5.1 MP IMX547 12.4 MP IMX535 1.7 MP IMX432
8.1 MP IMX546 2.8 MP IMX421 12.4 MP IMX545
2.8 MP IMX429 12.3 MP IMX253
12.3 MP IMX304
3.2 MP IMX252
3.2 MP IMX265
2.0 MP IMX422
2.0 MP IMX430
1.6 MP IMX273
0.4 MP IMX287

Sensor Features: New and Always Improving

Since the 1st generation, Sony continues to introduce a wealth of interesting on-sensor features, many of which are useful in different applications. Features such as dual ADC with built-in combining for on-sensor HDR functionality; consecutive shutters with very short 2µsec intervals; and exposure time monitoring are new features for 4th generation sensors. Whichever the feature, Sony’s goal is in either providing new and unique imaging modes for users or improving the efficiency and functionality of existing features. New sensor features allow users to image in brand new ways. For example, Self Trigger (3rd Gen) allows users to trigger the camera by detecting changes in a specified ROI. This novel on-sensor feature is something that would normally need additional devices to trigger the camera or specialized 3rd party software. Dual ADC with On-Sensor Combination (4th Gen) is an example of an improved feature. Dual ADC was first introduced on 3rd Gen sensors but processing an HDR image was either done on the camera’s ISP or on the host PC. Now the processing takes place on-sensor, freeing up system resources and simplifying HDR image creation.

The features listed below are all optional for the camera manufacturer to implement, meaning certain sensor features may or may not be available for the user. LUCID will gradually implement and support of these valuable sensor features through hassle free on-camera firmware updates.

Multi-frame ROI mode Set multiple ROIs within the full resolution Multi-exposure trigger Set multiple exposure times within one image frame. Global shutter CMOS Distortion free imaging with high image quality and improved low light performance Self trigger Set two ROIs - one for image capture which is triggered when the 2nd ROI detects changes in its region Short exposure mode Set short exposure times as fast as 2µsec Dual ADC A low gain and high gain image is taken on the same frame. Output can be combined on camera ISP On-Sensor Conversion Gain High Gain for maximum sensitivity and minimum read noise (best for low light) and Low Gain for increased saturation capacity and dynamic range (best for bright light) Dual trigger Set two different levels of exposure and gain. Each can be triggered independently Dual ADC w/ on-sensor combination A low gain and high gain image is taken (on the same frame) and combined to produce an HDR image Ultra short shutter interval The time between shutters can be set as fast as 2µsec Exposure time monitoring Output a signal that mirrors the actual input trigger for an exposure. Improved On-sensor thermometer A higher accuracy thermometer for better thermal management Improved features to increase user efficiency and functionality New and unique imaging modes for users. 4th Generation 1st Generation 2nd Generation 3rd Generation Multi-frame ROI mode Set multiple ROIs within the full resolution Global shutter CMOS Distortion free imaging with high image quality and improved low light performance Multi-exposure trigger Set multiple exposure times within one image frame. Short exposure mode Set short exposure times as fast as 2µsec Dual ADC A low gain and high gain image is taken on the same frame. Output can be combined on camera ISP Dual trigger Set two different levels of exposure and gain. Each can be triggered independently Self trigger Set two ROIs - one for image capture which is triggered when the 2nd ROI detects changes in its region Exposure time monitoring Output a signal that mirrors the actual input trigger for an exposure. Improved On-sensor thermometer A higher accuracy thermometer for better thermal management Ultra short shutter interval The time between shutters can be set as fast as 2µsec Dual ADC w/ on-sensor combination A low gain and high gain image is taken (on the same frame) and combined to produce an HDR image On-Sensor Conversion Gain High Gain for maximum sensitivity and minimum read noise (best for low light) and Low Gain for increased saturation capacity and dynamic range (best for bright light) Sony IMX530 CMOS
Sensor Feature 1st Gen 2nd Gen 3rd Gen 4th Gen Comments
Multi frame set
2f
2, 4f
2, 4f
2, 4f 		#f = Set frame number
Multi exposure trigger    
Low power consumption   Updated for 4th Gen
ROI mode
(4x4)
(8x8)
w/ overlap, (8x8)
w/ overlap, (8x8) 		(#x#) = High speed version
Multi frame ROI mode  
Thermometer  
Gradation compression   = High speed only
Short exposure mode    
Self trigger     = High speed only
Dual trigger     = High speed only
On-sensor conversion gain        
Dual ADC     = High speed only
Dual ADC with on-sensor combination NEW       = High speed only
Short shutter interval NEW        
Exposure time monitoring NEW        
I2C slave address 3 3 3 9 # = I2C slave address number

Maximizing Pregius Performance for the User

Camera manufacturers play an important role by setting the stage for maximum imaging quality. Decisions made at the design and manufacturing stage can greatly affect camera functionality and sensor performance. Below are some aspects that will help end-users realize the sensor’s maximum potential.

Active Sensor Alignment & Quality Control Testing
4th generation Pregius sensors increase resolutions by both increasing sensor size while reducing pixel size. This makes the sensor more sensitive to sensor alignment tolerances within the camera. Discrepancies in sensor back focal distance (BFD), rotation, and tilt, in relation to the camera’s lens barrel can negatively affect the image quality. A large sensor with increased tilt can reduce image sharpness in the corners of the sensor. On the other hand, a small sensor with a misaligned center will affect camera mounting placement. To make sure each sensor is accurately mounted inside every camera unit, LUCID employs active sensor alignment during the sensor’s mounting stage. Active sensor alignment allows LUCID to measure in real-time the precise location of the sensor while it is being attached to the camera. The system uses a six degrees of freedom (6-DoF) clamp and overlays a structured light pattern on the sensor. This light pattern is measured for maximum sharpness during the placement process. In addition, all LUCID cameras are tested for hot pixels, dark or defective pixels, and dust particles on both the sensor and cover glass. Active sensor alignment combined with pixel and dust inspection ensures consistent high quality imaging.

Active Sensor Alignment Light pattern overlay
6DoF Active Sensor Alignment

Left: A light pattern is overlayed on the sensor. Any discrepancies in tilt, rotation, and depth will distort the light pattern. These distortions are measured and compensated for by moving the sensor using the 6DoF system (Right). From this, the sensor is tuned to the correct position in real time. Learn more about LUCID’s active sensor alignment process.

 

Frame Rates and Interface Bandwidth
Depending on the camera’s chosen interface, certain sensors will have different maximum frame rates. To meet the high readout speeds of Pregius S sensors, LUCID’s new Atlas10 comes with a 10 Gigabit interface, with NBASE-T compatibility for fallback to 5/2.5/1 GigE speeds. The Atlas10 features the Sony Pregius S 24.5 MP, 20.4 MP, and 16.2 MP high speed sensors.

Atlas10 10Gige Camera with PoE

The Atlas10 camera combines 10 Gigabit speeds with PoE, paired with Sony Pregius S sensors.

ethernet data rates chart

10 GigE is a cost-effective interface offering high bandwidth over twisted pair copper cables.

Something for Everyone

The Pregius family of sensors presents a wide variety of sensors to meet a multitude of imaging requirements. There is a total of 38 sensors designed for industrial applications spanning across 4 Pregius generations. There are 2 frame rate variations (high speed and standard speed), 4 pixel sizes, 12 sensor sizes, 7 aspect ratios, and resolutions ranging from 0.4MP up to 31.4MP. For users looking for enhanced sensitivity, 1st and 3rd generation sensors offer the highest saturation capacity results thanks to their larger pixel sizes. 2nd generation sensors offer the widest variety of resolutions and aspect ratios. 4th generation sensors offer some of the highest resolutions in compact sensor sizes while maintaining overall sensitivity thanks to its backside illuminated 2.74µm pixel. Whichever sensor is chosen, it is important to consider high quality components such as optics and illumination and also which camera manufacturing processes are employed to maximize imaging quality, such as active sensor alignment and quality control testing.