Raspberry Pi Camera Module 3

Cameras | 2024-11-19 17:47

Overview

- Raspberry Pi Camera Module 3 is a compact camera from Raspberry Pi. It offers an IMX708 12-megapixel sensor with HDR, and features phase detection autofocus. Camera Module 3 is available in standard and wide-angle variants, both of which are available with or without an infrared cut filter.

- Camera Module 3 can be used to take full HD video as well as stills photographs, and features an HDR mode up to 3 megapixels. Its operation is fully supported by the libcamera library, including Camera Module 3’s rapid autofocus feature: this makes it easy for beginners to use, while offering plenty for advanced users. Camera Module 3 is compatible with all Raspberry Pi computers.

- The PCB size and mounting holes remain the same as for Camera Module 2.The Z dimension differs: due to the improved optics, Camera Module 3 is several millimetres taller than Camera Module 2.

Here are some of its key features:

1.Resolution: The Camera Module 3 features a 12-megapixel Sony IMX708 sensor, providing a significant upgrade from the previous 8-megapixel module, resulting in sharper photos and videos with more detailed images.

2.Autofocus: The Camera Module 3 supports Phase Detection Auto Focus (PDAF), allowing for precise focusing whether the subject is close or far away, ensuring clear images.

3.Lens Options: The Camera Module 3 is available with two lens options, including a standard wide-angle lens (75° field of view) and an ultra-wide-angle lens (120° field of view), catering to different photography needs.

4.Low-Light Performance: The Sony IMX708 sensor performs better in low-light conditions, with fewer noise artifacts, making the Camera Module 3 suitable for night or dimly lit environments.

5.HDR Support: The Camera Module 3 supports High Dynamic Range (HDR), which enhances the contrast between bright and dark areas, capturing rich details even in complex lighting conditions.

6.Compatibility: The Camera Module 3 is compatible with various Raspberry Pi models, including Raspberry Pi 4, Raspberry Pi 3, and Raspberry Pi Zero 2 W, connecting via the standard CSI interface.

7.Infrared Version (NoIR): The Camera Module 3 also offers a NoIR (No Infrared Filter) version, suitable for applications that require capturing infrared light, such as night vision cameras, ideal for wildlife monitoring or security surveillance in dark environments.

8.Technical Specifications: The Camera Module 3 has a sensor size of 7.4mm and a pixel size of 1.4μm×1.4μm. It supports common video modes like 1080p50, 720p100, and 480p120, with a RAW10 output format. The standard and NoIR versions differ in the integration of an infrared cut-off filter.

The Raspberry Pi Camera Module 3 is the latest product in the Raspberry Pi camera module series, offering higher resolution, improved autofocus capabilities, and enhanced low-light performance, making it suitable for a variety of applications such as home security systems, image capture for robots and drones, and time-lapse photography projects.

Specifications

Sensor: Sony IMX708

Resolution: 11.9 megapixels

Sensor size: 7.4mm sensor diagonal

Pixel size: 1.4μm × 1.4μm

Horizontal/vertical: 4608 × 2592 pixels

Common video modes: 1080p50, 720p100, 480p120

Output: RAW10

IR cut filter: Integrated in standard variants; not present in NoIR variants

Autofocus system: Phase Detection Autofocus

Dimensions: 25 × 24 × 11.5mm (12.4mm height for Wide variants)

Ribbon cable length: 200mm

Cable connector: 15 × 1mm FPC

Operating temperature: 0°C to 50°C

Compliance:
FCC 47 CFR Part 15, Subpart B, Class B Digital Device
Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive (EMC) 2014/30/EU
Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) Directive
2011/65/EU

Production lifetime:
Raspberry Pi Camera Module 3 will remain in production until at least January 2030

Physical Specification

Variants

	Camera Module 3	Camera Module 3 NoIR	Camera Module 3 Wide	Camera Module 3 Wide NoIR
Focus range	10cm–∞	10cm–∞	5cm–∞	5cm–∞
Focal length	4.74mm	4.74mm	2.75mm	2.75mm
Diagonal field of view	75 degrees	75 degrees	120 degrees	120 degrees
Horizontal field of view	66 degrees	66 degrees	102 degrees	102 degrees
Vertical field of view	41 degrees	41 degrees	67 degrees	67 degrees
Focal ratio (F-stop)	F1.8	F1.8	F2.2	F2.2
Infrared-sensitive	No	Yes	No	No

WARNINGS

This product should be operated in a well ventilated environment, and if used inside a case, the case should not be covered.

Whilst in use, this product should be firmly secured or should be placed on a stable, flat, non-conductive surface, and should not be contacted by conductive items.

The connection of incompatible devices to Raspberry Camera Module 3 may affect compliance, result in damage to the unit, and invalidate the warranty.

All peripherals used with this product should comply with relevant standards for the country of use and be marked accordingly to ensure that safety and performance requirements are met.

SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

To avoid malfunction or damage to this product, please observe the following:

Important: Before connecting this device, shut down your Raspberry Pi computer and disconnect it fromexternal power.

If the cable becomes detached, first pull forward the locking mechanism on the connector, then insert the ribbon cable ensuring that the metal contacts face towards the circuit board, and finally push the locking mechanism back into place.

This device should be operated in a dry environment at 0–50°C.

Do not expose to water or moisture, or place on a conductive surface whilst in operation.

Do not expose to heat from any source; Raspberry Pi Camera Module 3 is designed for reliable operation at normal ambient temperatures.

Store in a cool, dry location.

Avoid rapid changes of temperature, which can cause moisture to build up in the device, affecting image quality.

Take care not to fold or strain the ribbon cable.

Take care whilst handling to avoid mechanical or electrical damage to the printed circuit board and connectors.

Whilst it is powered, avoid handling the printed circuit board, or handle it only by the edges, to minimise the risk of electrostatic discharge damage.