SmartSens Launches New 1/2.8-Inch Star-Light High-Definition CMOS Image Sensor for Intelligent Security Applications

Shanghai, China, August 18, 2026, SmartSens Technology (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. (SSE STAR MARKET: 688213), a technologically advanced CMOS image sensor supplier, has officially introduced the SC185SL, the newest addition to the Star Light (SL) series for intelligent security applications. As a 1/2.8-inch large optical-format BSI image sensor, the SC185SL is built on SmartSens’ advanced SmartClarity^®-3 process platform and integrates core technologies including SFCPixel^® and Micro-Pillar™ for near-infrared (NIR) enhancement. It delivers high sensitivity, low noise and low power consumption, making it ideal for smart doorbells, smart locks, and high-end security nighttime full-color imaging applications while enabling clear and detailed images in low-light conditions.

Furthermore, the SC185SL features an optimized 4:3 aspect ratio that effectively expands the field‑of‑view (FOV) coverage and is highly compatible with fisheye and wide‑angle lenses. This significantly improves scene coverage in complex surveillance scenarios such as entrance corners and stairwells, providing 24/7 high‑definition visual support for intelligent security systems.

Main Features

4:3 Optimized Aspect Ratio

The SC185SL features a 4:3 aspect ratio with a resolution of 1290H x 960V. Compared with conventional 16:9 image sensors, the 4:3 format provides wider vertical FOV coverage, making it suitable for 360° fisheye panoramic lenses and wide-angle lenses while significantly improving sensor area utilization. In large-area monitoring scenarios, the 4:3 format helps eliminate vertical blind spots, ensuring critical visual information is fully captured—including packages at doorsteps, full-body images of visitors, and vehicles/pedestrians at community entrances—thereby offering more comprehensive visual data support for premium intelligent security systems.

High Sensitivity

Built on SmartSens' SmartClarity^®-3 process platform and incorporating SFCPixel^® technology, the SC185SL delivers both high sensitivity and low noise. Under extremely low-light or even no-light conditions — such as suburbs, rural areas and remote woodlands — the SC185SL demonstrates outstanding full‑color imaging, with an SNR1s value as low as 0.1 lux, representing a reduction of approximately 29% compared to the previous‑generation product. It captures clear, recognizable images without auxiliary lighting, accurately records visitor faces and nighttime events in residential areas, and achieves high‑definition night vision.

The SC185SL leverages Micro-Pillar™ technology, featuring an optimized 2x2 OM (Optical Modulation) near-infrared enhancement structure, which significantly boosts infrared light absorption in the pixel photosensitive area while effectively suppressing pixel crosstalk and enhancing quantum efficiency (QE). At NIR wavelengths of 850nm and 940nm, the SC185SL achieves peak QE of 54% and 37%, respectively, to provide cameras with bright, clear, and detail-rich infrared imaging.

Low Noise

The SC185SL supports CMS2, CMS4, and 12-bit quantization modes, delivering superior noise suppression. Its read noise (RN) is as low as 0.67e⁻, effectively reducing graininess in low-light night scenes, ensuring image purity and cleaner image quality.

Low Power Consumption

Thanks to the SmartClarity^®‑3 process and precise control over internal circuit modules, the SC185SL addresses the stringent power requirements of wireless, battery‑powered or solar‑powered cameras. At 30fps, its power consumption is as low as 92mW, significantly reducing the need for frequent battery replacements or recharging, ensuring long‑term stable operation, and extending the endurance of outdoor security systems.

SmartSens Star Light (SL) Series

With the introduction of the SC185SL, SmartSens' SL series now forms a complete product portfolio, covering the SC855SL, SC485SL, SC285SL and the newly released SC185SL. The series is built on the SmartClarity^®-3 BSI process platform and features SFCPixel^®, offering full-color night-vision solutions for intelligent security cameras.

The SC185SL is currently available for sampling, with mass production scheduled for Q4 2026. For more information or to request a sample, please contact SmartSens Sales Representatives: cs@smartsenstech.com

About SmartSens Technology (Shanghai) Co., Ltd.

SmartSens Technology (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. (SSE STAR MARKET: 688213) is a high-performance CMOS image sensor (CIS) chip design company. It is headquartered in Shanghai and has research centers in many cities around the world. SmartSens has been dedicated to advancing the frontier of imaging technology and has been growing in popularity among customers since it was established. SmartSens’ CMOS image sensors provide advanced imaging solutions for a broad range of areas such as surveillance, machine vision, automotive and smartphone cameras. SmartSens is committed to the continuous innovation of products and to fueling growth in numerous industries by delivering a more comprehensive portfolio of image sensors. Learn more at SmartSensTech.com