The new Schottky barrier diode helps protect image sensors from damage, even when they’re powered off, from sunlight.
Modern cameras in cars, factories, and smart devices use high-resolution image sensors that face a common problem: heat and voltage damage. When exposed to light, these sensors can generate small electric charges even if they are powered OFF. The phenomenon is known as photovoltaic voltage.
Over time, this can damage the circuit. Secondly, if powered ON, high temperatures caused by power loss can also lead to system failure or a shorter lifespan.
ROHM has developed a new type of SBD diode (Schottky barrier diode) to solve both issues. The diode protects the image sensor from high voltage when it is powered OFF and controls heat when it is running.
The new diode, called RBE01VYM6AFH, keeps a forward voltage below 300 millivolts at –40°C and limits reverse current to under 20 microamperes even at 125°C. This makes it stable in both cold and high-temperature conditions. It can prevent overheating, protect against voltage spikes, and maintain performance over time.
The diode comes in a small flat package measuring 2.5 by 1.4 millimetres, which makes it easy to use in compact camera and sensor systems. It meets the automotive AEC-Q101 standard, ensuring reliability for car cameras and other long-term applications.
ROHM’s design can be used in ADAS cameras, security cameras, smart home devices, and industrial sensors. The company is also working on smaller versions for future electronics that require higher precision and less space.
Key features
- Prevents voltage from damaging the sensors when they are powered off.
- Controls heat during active operation to avoid thermal issues.
- Operates with low forward voltage (<300 mV at –40 °C).
- Maintains low reverse current (<20 µA at 125 °C).
- Packaged in compact 2.5 × 1.4 mm SOD-323HE format.
- Meets AEC-Q101 automotive reliability standards.
- Performs reliably across wide temperature ranges.
- Supports ongoing miniaturisation of high-resolution electronics.
