Arducam has launched its first Kickstarter project, a 16MP autofocus-equipped camera module for Raspberry Pi. The 16MP high-res AF camera module fits all Raspberry Pi models and offers twice the resolution of the v2 camera module and 40% higher resolution than the HQ camera.
The project has already reached its relatively low funding goal of $1,999. As of writing, the project has received nearly $30,000 in support with 22 days remaining in the campaign.
The new Arducam 16MP camera module is the same size as the V1 and V2 cameras for Raspberry Pi but now includes autofocus. The camera uses the 16MP Sony IMX519 image sensor, whereas the V2 uses the IMX219, and the HQ uses the IMX477. The IMX519 sensor can record FHD video at up to 30p and can record 720/120p video, too. Unfortunately, 4K video is unavailable as the Raspberry Pi itself is a bottleneck for the sensor to produce 4K video.
In the spirit of Raspberry Pi, the Arducam 16MP is open source. Everything about the camera, including its machine learning, will be open source so that users can push the camera and its technology forward.
There are a few more interesting details on the project’s FAQ page. Because the campaign has reached numerous backer stretch goals, the camera will come with an enclosure. As mentioned earlier, the camera is compatible with all Raspberry Pi models. Specifically, any Pi model with a MIPI connector. Arducam suggests using a Raspberry Pi 2 and later models. The IR-cut filter is not removable, but due to another stretch goal being reached, a NoIR version is also available.
We’ve also learned that the camera’s minimum focus distance is 10cm, and the onboard lens has an 80-degree field of view, which is similar to a wide-angle lens, like a 24mm prime, on a full-frame camera.
For backers, you can get the Arducam 16MP for HK$120, which works out to about $16 USD. The eventual MRSP will be $25. Shipping is expected to begin in January. To learn more about different backing options, visit Kickstarter.
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