3 Uses for a CMOS Inverter
Many people don't give a moments thought to the CMOS inverter in their digital camera. However, this is actually a very clever piece of technology which is used to convert light into electrons, which can then be stored on digital memory cards. The CMOS Inverter is an integral part of your camera, as without it you would be unable to capture anything.
CCD or CMOS?
More and more cameras use CCD sensors or "Charge Coupled Device," whereas the older technology, CMOS "Complimentary Metal Oxide Semiconductor," still has a number of advantages. While both of these work in pretty much the same way, they do it slightly differently.
Here are 3 uses for a CMOS inverter:
1. Creating Images
The CMOS sensor converts the light that enters the lens into electrical signals, which can then be stored easily. A CMOS sensor will create lower quality images than a CCD sensor, but this is acceptable in some circumstances.
2. Power Saving
Another major advantage of a camera using CMOS over CCD is that it offers a significant power saving. CCDs consume a lot more power, which can be very demanding on older batteries.
CMOS Sensors have been improved over the years, and this is making them more and more suitable for cameras. They are much cheaper to produce, and the power savings are also desirable for digital cameras.
3. Other Uses
While the most common use for CMOS Sensors will be in digital cameras, they can also be used in a number of other situations. They can be used for RF circuits, mixed signal devices and as transmission gates.