Introduction to the Cheetah HS

In a groundbreaking collaboration, AIStorm and Tower Semiconductor have unveiled the Cheetah HS — an AI-in-imager chip that redefines high-speed image capturing. Capable of acquiring up to 260,000 frames per second, this innovative device significantly outperforms traditional CMOS sensors, which tend to capture thousands of times slower.

Key Innovators: AIStorm and Tower Semiconductor

AIStorm is recognized as a pioneer in charge-domain solutions for edge AI, and Tower Semiconductor is a notable player in the foundry sector, focusing on high-value analog solutions. Their partnership has harnessed Tower's unique charge-domain imaging technology paired with AIStorm's proprietary analog AI neurons. This collaboration promises to lower the power requirements and costs for applications spanning from robotics and drones to surveillance and sports analysis.

The Technology Behind Cheetah HS

The Cheetah HS integrates ultra-high-speed imaging with charge-domain AI, a blend that not only enhances performance but also reduces component costs for developers. As highlighted by CEO David Schie of AIStorm, "Many consumer and industrial applications require ultra-slow-motion analysis of real-time events to analyze performance or detect anomalies. Such solutions are very costly, and our Cheetah HS solution makes them affordable for a wide range of markets and end applications."

Charge-Domain Processing

Traditional high-speed cameras rely heavily on data converters, elevating both the complexity and cost. In contrast, the Cheetah HS takes a different approach by converting incoming photons directly into charge, then computing the first neural network layer in analog form. This minimizes the need for expensive connectors and data interfaces and is a testament to the advantages of charge-domain architecture.

Real-World Applications and Benefits

The practical implications for industries are vast. From manufacturing assembly lines to high-speed security systems, the Cheetah HS can cater to various sectors seeking real-time data capture and analysis. Some of its standout features include:

• Adjustable Frame Rate: With speeds up to 260,000 fps, it offers unparalleled flexibility for different applications.
• Integrated LED Driver: With programmable capabilities up to 40 mA.
• Enhanced Low Light Performance and Cost Efficiency: By integrating charge-domain neuron layers, it outputs pulse streams suitable for further processing.

These attributes not only slash processing costs but also ensure the efficient capture and analysis of high-speed events, something invaluable in competitive sports like golf or complex surveillance operations.

Future Implications and Availability

Dr. Avi Strum from Tower Semiconductor emphasized their satisfaction with the collaboration's outcomes, hinting at future product families that offer the same high-performance, low-cost benefits. The technology is currently available both as a standalone chip and within complete reference-camera systems, providing developers with immediate pathways to integrate this innovation.

For those interested in exploring this technology further, additional resources and contact information can be found here.

Conclusion

The introduction of the Cheetah HS marks a significant leap forward in the realm of high-speed imaging and AI integration. Through AIStorm and Tower Semiconductor's combined expertise, the industry now has access to advanced, cost-effective tools that could transform several sectors. As technology continues to evolve, such collaborations will pave the way for new applications unimagined just a few years prior, making real-time, high-speed analysis accessible to a broader range of industries.