Contributes to Create a Wide Range of Applications Including Post Focus on Images
after Taking Picture
ME NewsWire / Business Wire
TOKYO - Thursday, September 26th 2013
Toshiba Corporation (TOKYO:6502) today announced that it has launched the
industry’s first1 dual camera module for smartphones, tablets and mobile devices.
“TCM9518MD” incorporates twin 1/4 inch optical format 5-megapixel CMOS
camera modules (5 megapixels x 2 arrays) and simultaneously outputs recorded
images and depth data. Images captured with the module can subsequently be
manipulated to change the depth of field and point of focus. Samples will be
available by January 2014, with mass production scheduled for April 2014.
The dedicated companion LSI of the “TCM9518MD” measures and appends depth
data to objects in the image. These data can be used for a wide variety of
applications, including focus and defocus, and even to extract and erase objects
from the picture. Used in combination with customers’ applications, the module
supports the creation of new functions.
The companion LSI generates 13-megapixel images by upscaling images taken by
the twin 5-megapixel cameras, realizing a lower module height than that of
conventional 13-megapixel camera modules2.
Computational cameras create images impossible to realize with the standard
camera module by combining optical hardware technology—the lens and
diaphragm—with digital signal processing technology. The TCM9518MD brings high
resolution and computational camera functionalities to the CMOS image sensor
market for smartphones, tablets and mobile devices.
Summary of the New Product
Part Number
Sample Price
Sample Schedule
Mass Production Schedule
Mass Production Volume
TCM9518MD
5000 Yen
January 2014
April 2014
500 thousand pieces per month
Key Features of the New Product 1. Simultaneous Output of Depth Data (Depth
Map) and Deep Focus Image The TCM9518MD’s twin cameras and dedicate
companion LSI simultaneously deliver deep focus images in which foreground and
background and all points in between are in focus, with depth data on each object
in the image. This supports creation of new applications for smartphone, tablets and
mobile devices, including refocus, defocus and extraction of any objects of the
images, and gesture operation.
2. Output of 13-Megapixel Image The companion LSI generates 13-megapixel
photographs by upscaling images captured by the twin 5-megapixel cameras. This
will contribute to downsizing of mobile devices.
3. Digital Focus Function Most of auto focus camera modules for smartphones
deploy a mechanical focus structure, moving the lens with motors like VCM3. It
can take time to focus and also result shutter lag. TCM9518MD offers a non-
mechanical digital focus function without mechanical structure, allowing high
speed focus by calculating the depth to any objects4. It also realizes a lower
module height.
Main Specifications
Part Number
TCM9518MD
Output Resolution
13 megapixels
Sensor and Resolution
5 megapixels x 2
Optical Size
1/4 inch x 2
Pixel Size
1.4 micrometer
Module Size
8.0 x 12.0 x 4.65 mm
Notes: 1. For dual camera module with the companion LSI which output depth
data. Source: Toshiba, as of September 2013. 2. Generally for single camera
modules, a bigger output image size requires a higher camera module. This product
is lower than commercial 13-megapixel camera modules. Source: Toshiba, as of
September 2013. 3. Voice Coil Motor: a motor that moves a lens by applying an
electrical current to a coil. 4. Deep focus image output is not available when using
a digital focus function.
For more information about the product, please visit:
http://www.semicon.toshiba.co.jp/eng/product/new_products/sensor/1325631_
37652.html
Customer Inquiries: Image Sensor Sales & Marketing Group 1 Tel: +81-3-3457-3370
Information in this document, including product prices and specifications, content
of services and contact information, is current on the date of the announcement
but is subject to change without prior notice.
About Toshiba Toshiba is a world-leading diversified manufacturer, solutions
provider and marketer of advanced electronic and electrical products and
systems. Toshiba Group brings innovation and imagination to a wide range of
businesses: digital products, including LCD TVs, notebook PCs, retail solutions and
MFPs; electronic devices, including semiconductors, storage products and
materials; industrial and social infrastructure systems, including power generation
systems, smart community solutions, medical systems and escalators & elevators;
and home appliances.
Toshiba was founded in 1875, and today operates a global network of more than
550 consolidated companies, with 202,000 employees worldwide and annual sales
surpassing 6.1 trillion yen (US$74 billion). Visit Toshiba's web site at
www.toshiba.co.jp/index.htm
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Contacts
Media Inquiries:
Toshiba Corporation
Semiconductor & Storage Products Company
Takashi Mochizuki, +81-3-3457-4963
semicon-NR-mailbox@ml.toshiba.co.jp
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