Patent ID: 8471942
Filing Date: 2013-06-25
Classification: H04N

Abstract:
1. A method for controlling a solid-state image pickup apparatus comprising a pixel array in which a plurality of pixels each including a photoelectric converter configured to convert light into a charge and an amplifier configured to amplify and output a signal generated in accordance with the charge generated by the photoelectric converter is arranged two-dimensionally, a plurality of vertical output lines to each of which the signal from the amplifier included in each of the plurality of pixels in a corresponding column is output, and a plurality of load metal-oxide-semiconductor transistors each provided corresponding to one of the plurality of vertical output lines and each configured to supply a constant current to the amplifier included in each of the plurality of pixels in a corresponding column, the method comprising, during a signal reading time including a time for outputting a noise signal of each of the plurality of pixels to the plurality of vertical output lines and a time for outputting a light signal of each of the plurality of pixels to the plurality of vertical output lines: causing the solid-state image pickup apparatus to sample a predetermined voltage at a sample and hold circuit; and causing the solid-state image pickup apparatus to supply a voltage to the plurality of load metal-oxide-semiconductor transistors while electrically separating the sample and hold circuit from the voltage supply source.