The image capture device in a digital camera converting light into electrical signals.
Definition
The sensor is the heart of every digital camera – it converts light into electrical signals. Size, technology, and design determine image quality.
Practical Application
ARRI ALEV (ALEXA), RED Helium/Monstro/Komodo, Sony CMOS sensors – each manufacturer develops its own sensors. Size influences depth of field, low-light performance, and field of view.
Technical Details
CMOS dominates (vs. CCD previously). Bayer pattern for color. Rolling vs. Global Shutter. Dynamic Range in stops. Native ISO determines optimal sensitivity. Pixel Size influences noise.
News
The latest camera announcements show significant sensor innovations: Nikon's Z6 IV and Z90 feature partially stacked 33-36MP sensors with integrated RED color science and internal 6K RAW recording. Stacked sensors, due to their multi-layer architecture, enable significantly faster readout times and reduce rolling shutter effects. Vision Research is also working on crash-resistant high-speed cameras with an improved sensor pipeline for extreme operating conditions.
News
Blackmagic Design enabled PDAF (Phase Detection Autofocus) in 2026 for the 6K Bayer sensor of the PYXIS 6K, allowing for significantly faster focus and more stable tracking. Vision Research announced a new high-speed camera sensor with 170G shock resistance for crash tests. The industry is also discussing new sensor types like RGBW for improved light sensitivity.