S15611W explained: Hamamatsu Photonics CMOS sensor specs

September 26, 2026

Optics.org Japan

Overview

Hamamatsu Photonics has announced the S15611W, a new CMOS linear image sensor with an integrated timing generator, bias generator, and 12-bit A/D converter, providing direct digital output. This sensor features 1024 x 1 effective pixels, supports a maximum readout speed of 40 MHz, and a line rate of 34 kHz. Its compact Chip Size Package (CSP) and broad spectral response from 400 nm to 1000 nm make it ideal for spectroscopy and various sensing applications.

In Depth

Key Findings

Hamamatsu Photonics has introduced the “S15611W,” a new CMOS linear image sensor featuring integrated digital output capabilities. This sensor simplifies system design and contributes to miniaturization by directly providing digital output signals from a single device, eliminating the need for complex external circuitry.

Technical Details

The S15611W is a high-performance linear image sensor with 1024 x 1 effective pixels, supporting a maximum readout speed of 40 MHz and a line rate of 34 kHz. A key feature is the on-chip integration of a timing generator, bias generator, and a 12-bit A/D converter. This eliminates the need for external analog and data conversion circuits, simplifying system design and reducing noise. The sensor adopts a compact and thin Chip Size Package (CSP) structure, facilitating integration into space-constrained environments. Furthermore, its wide spectral response range of 400 nm to 1000 nm covers visible to near-infrared light, making it suitable for diverse spectroscopic analysis and industrial sensing applications.

Background & Context

In fields requiring high-precision linear imaging, such as industrial inspection equipment, medical devices, and environmental monitoring, there’s a constant demand not only for sensor performance but also for system miniaturization, reduced power consumption, and shorter development times. Sensors with integrated digital output are a crucial solution for addressing these challenges, improving overall system integration and reliability. Hamamatsu Photonics, a global leader in optoelectronics, offering products from photomultiplier tubes to various sensors, demonstrates its technological prowess with this new product release.

Strategic Significance & Outlook

High-functional digital output linear image sensors like the S15611W are expected to be adopted in a variety of next-generation applications, including advanced spectrometers, Process Analytical Technology (PAT), and non-destructive inspection systems. They will particularly excel in portable devices and embedded systems where miniaturization and high sensitivity are paramount. This product is poised to contribute to the widespread adoption of more efficient and reliable optical sensing solutions across industries and research sectors.

Source: https://optics.org/product-announcements/cmos-linear-image-sensor-with-digital-output

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