The open-source CHC5 camera system supports a range of interchangeable image sensors, allowing developers to choose between low-light performance, high resolution, high-speed capture and global shutter operation.
The CHC5 is an open camera platform designed around interchangeable sensor boards rather than a fixed image sensor. The system currently supports nine sensor options from Sony and OmniVision, allowing users to select hardware based on the requirements of a particular camera application. The sensor boards can also be used with other systems through CircuitValley’s MIPI FMC board and can connect to platforms such as Raspberry Pi and Jetson.
The available sensors cover a wide range of specifications. Options include the 12.3-megapixel Sony IMX477, 8.3-megapixel IMX678 and IMX585, 20.3-megapixel IMX283, 10.7-megapixel IMX294, 5.1-megapixel global-shutter IMX568, 12.3-megapixel global-shutter IMX565 and OmniVision’s 8.3-megapixel OX08B40. Depending on the sensor, interfaces include two-, four- or eight-lane MIPI CSI-2, while some devices also support SLVS-EC.
The different sensors target different applications. The IMX477 provides a general-purpose 12.3-megapixel option with up to 60 frames per second at full resolution and 240 frames per second at 1080p. The IMX585 targets low-light applications with STARVIS 2 technology and is available in both colour and monochrome versions, while the larger IMX294 provides a 4/3-inch optical format and up to 120 frames per second at 4K.
For applications requiring motion capture, the CHC5 platform also provides global-shutter options. The IMX568 offers 5.1 megapixels at up to 79 frames per second, while the 12.3-megapixel IMX565 is designed for applications where eliminating motion distortion is more important than maximum frame rate. The OX08B40 provides another specialised option, offering up to 140 dB wide dynamic range and LED flicker mitigation for scenes with extreme differences between bright and dark areas.
The project is supported by open-source hardware and software resources, with the CHC5 Open Camera source available on GitHub. By separating the image sensor from the main camera platform, CHC5 allows developers to select or replace sensors without redesigning the entire camera system. This modular approach provides an open platform for applications ranging from robotics and machine vision to astronomy, surveillance and general-purpose photography.
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