Sony Spresense Camera Board (ISX012)

This 5MP camera board is the latest addition to the Spresense lineup, crafted to enhance the main board's capabilities with its compact, high-resolution camera. Equipped with the Sony ISX012 image sensor and a lens, this camera board boasts an effective pixel count of 5.11 million, delivering crisp, detailed images. An onboard encoder provides flexibility with image acquisition, supporting JPEG, Y/C, or RGB formats for versatile applications.

The camera board seamlessly connects to the main board via a dedicated parallel interface, allowing it to integrate effortlessly with the AI functions of the main board. This combination enriches IoT devices with advanced visual capabilities, enabling applications ranging from smart surveillance to automated image recognition systems. The intuitive connection design ensures that users can quickly set up their device without needing extensive technical knowledge.

Care should be taken while handling this delicate piece of technology. The camera module is sensitive to static electricity, thus it is advisable to discharge any static electricity from your body by touching a grounded object, such as a computer chassis. A protective blue plastic film covers the lens and should be gently removed before use to ensure optimal performance. This attention to detail ensures longevity and functionality in various environments.

The flat cable connecting the camera board and main board is designed for simplicity and reliability. However, both connectors are somewhat fragile, so it's important to avoid unnecessary insertions or removals. When connecting or disconnecting the flat cable, a gentle, uniform force should be applied, and care should be taken to ensure that the cable is inserted correctly, with the electrode side facing away from the PCB. This methodical approach guarantees stable connections and consistent performance.