 |
|
Advanced Audio & Video Coding |
 |
Advanced Imaging Devices
Toward the Ultimate Ultra-high Sensitivity Imaging Device |
| In this drastic era of change, called the IT revolution, the realization of Hi-Vision (HDTV) and digital satellite broadcasting came just in time. The world premiere of these technologies was produced by our laboratories. In any given time period the STRL has always prepared for the next era. Centering on coding technology, our research division is working toward technologies that will be the basis for the next generation of broadcasting. Research ranges from video coding represented by MPEG4, object extraction technology, to network use technology, digital watermarking and 3-D media. In the rapidly developing media environment, we are fostering cutting-edge technologies as well as grasping current trends at full speed. |
We are promoting research on a superhigh-sensitivity imaging device that will pick up objects in the dark with a vivid image, less noise, and greater brightness than an image sensed by the naked eye. The realization of this device requires two advanced technologies. One is a technology that amplifies an image without an increase in noise and the other is a technology that converts all the entering photons into electrons. With regard to the former technology, we have already established an amplification technology with no additional noise, called HARP. Therefore, our future agenda includes the development of a new photoconductive film that ensures the complete conversion of photons into electrons, and a technology to connect such a film with HARP film. Furthermore, since this research is also a pursuit of the ultimate high S/N imaging device, we believe that it will be indispensable toward the next generation ultrahigh definition TV system with many more scanning lines. | |
 Kazuo
FUKUI, Director, Advanced Audio & Video Coding Division |
 Kenkichi
TANIOKA, Director, Advanced Imaging Devices Division |