Patent ID: 6153882
Filing Date: 2000-11-28
Classification: G01T,H01L,H04N

Abstract:
A method for reading a data signal emitted by an active pixel in a sensor having a plurality of addressable pixels, the method comprising the steps of:(a) grouping said plurality of pixels into at least two groups each having a fraction of said plurality of addressable pixels,(b) identifying an active group of addressable pixels in which the active pixel is located,(c) providing a reading circuit for said active group of addressable pixels,(d) reading a magnitude of the data signal in respect of each pixel in said active group of addressable pixels so as to identify the active pixel,(e) providing an initiation signal when the data signal is emitted by the active pixel, and(f) measuring the magnitude of the data signal at a predetermined time interval t.sub.D after said initiation signal so as to read the magnitude of the data signal.