Definition and Common Types of Camera Modules

What is a ​Camera Module？

A camera module is a small, self-contained device that contains a camera and its associated electronics. It is designed to be easily integrated into other electronic systems, such as mobile phones, tablets, laptops, and drones.Camera modules are typically quite small and lightweight, and they can be mounted on a PCB (printed circuit board) or directly onto a device using a connector. They may be equipped with a variety of features, including image stabilization, autofocus, and flash. Some camera modules also have the ability to record video, in addition to taking still photos.

There are many different types of camera modules available, ranging from basic units with a single lens and sensor to more advanced models with multiple lenses and sensors. Some camera modules are designed specifically for use in low-light conditions, while others are optimized for capturing high-resolution images or video.

The Composition of the Camera Module

1. Lens: The lens is a vital part of the camera module. used for imagery. A key aspect in determining picture quality is the quality of the lens.

2. Bracket: A structure, usually plastic, into which all components fit.

3. VCM: The component is embedded in the holder. It is the lens used to adjust the focal length of the lens.

4. Infrared filter: The sensor on the camera can accept a wider range of light wavelengths than the human eye, so the infrared filter can filter out those invisible rays.

5. Sensor: Another key component is the camera module. It is used to receive the picture produced by the lens.

6. There are two types of sensors: CCD (Charge Coupled Device) and CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor). CCD has better sensitivity, so it can take better pictures. However, the imaging of CCD is quite slow, and its processing circuit generates more heat, which causes thermal noise and wastes energy.

7. CMOS is relatively cheap and energy-efficient, and the picture quality it provides is gradually improving, which makes it a better choice in the market, especially in the field of consumer electronics.

8. FPC: It is an integrated control circuit linked with other parts of the equipment.

Common Types of Camera Modules

（1）USB Camera Module

The USB camera module is the smallest miniature camera. It uses the USB interface to directly connect to a computer or power bank for power supply, so as to achieve the purpose of monitoring. Common ones include computer cameras, external USB cameras for video conferencing, and bendable WiFi wireless USB camera modules, which can be monitored remotely. You should be familiar with this device. All kinds of live cameras are peripherals, they only need to be connected to the computer usb, which can also be called a USB camera module.

（2）MIPI Camera Module

Often used in embedded vision systems, MIPI CSI-2 is a camera interface that connects image sensors to embedded boards for control and processing of image data. This helps the sensor and embedded circuit board act together as a camera system to capture images.

（3）HD CMOS Camera Module

CMOS image sensors are typical solid-state imaging sensors and share a common historical origin with CCDs. It is a key part in the CMOS camera module. CMOS is usually composed of image sensitive cell array, row driver, column driver, timing control logic, AD converter, data bus output interface, control interface and so on. These components are usually integrated on the same silicon chip. The working process can generally be divided into reset, photoelectric conversion, integration and readout.

Other digital signal processing circuits can also be integrated on the CMOS image sensor chip. Such as AD converter, automatic exposure control, non-uniform compensation, white balance processing, black level control, gamma correction, etc. In order to perform fast calculations, even DSP devices with programmable functions are integrated with CMOS devices to form a single-chip digital camera and image processing system.

（4）Raspbery Pi Camera Moduie

The Raspberry Pi camera module can be used to capture high-definition video as well as still photos. It's easy to use for beginners, but it has a lot to offer advanced users if you want to expand your knowledge. There are plenty of examples online of people using it for time-lapse photography, slo-mo, and other video smarts. You can also use our library bundled with the camera to create effects.

If you're interested in details, you'll want to know that the module features a five-megapixel fixed-focus camera that supports 1080p30, 720p60, and VGA90 video modes, as well as still image capture. It connects to the CSI port on the Raspberry Pi via a 15cm ribbon cable. It is accessible through the MMAL and V4L APIs, and there are a number of third-party libraries built for it, including the Picamera Python library.Camera modules are very popular in home security applications and wildlife camera traps.You can also use it to take snapshots.

（5）Endoscope Camera Module

The CCD/CMOS image sensor receives the light reflected by the mucous membrane in the body cavity, converts the light into an electrical signal, and transmits the signal to the endoscope camera system through a wire. The endoscope camera system stores and processes these electrical signals and finally transmits them to a monitor to display a color image of the inspected part on the screen. It has the advantages of long-distance image transmission and convenient back-end data processing. After assembly, it can be directly used in medical endoscopes and industrial endoscopes through assembly.

It has the advantages of good flexibility, high resolution, convenient diagnosis and small diameter.

Do you need camera module manufacturer？

CAMEMAKE Technology Co., Ltd is a professional manufacturer of CMOS camera modules in China. Their products mainly include USB camera modules and MIPI camera modules, which are widely used in video doorbells, Raspberry Pi cameras, endoscopes, etc. They can provide you with USB camera modules with resolutions ranging from VGA to 8 megapixels, and can customize the camera to provide you with module options with different configurations. Their modules feature a CMOS OV sensor type, making them suitable for a wider range of applications.

How to Find a Reliable Camera Module Manufacturer

CAMEMAKE Technology Co., Ltd is a professional manufacturer of CMOS camera modules in China. They provide the following services for each buyer：

1.Service Content:Design and manufacture of comprehensive CSP camera module solutions Design and manufacture of comprehensive COM camera module solutions Design and manufacture of comprehensive IoT camera module solutions

2. core advantages:Digital management mode to ensure efficient and high-quality services High-quality supply chain system ensures delivery time. Experienced production management personnel and technical service team to maintain sustainable development of the industry.

3. production capacity

If you need a camera module, please contact CAMEMAKE!With an abundance of camera mods merchandise out there, you're sure to find what you need！