Patent ID: 6346696
Filing Date: 2002-02-12
Classification: H04N

Abstract:
A method for driving a pixel array including a plurality of unit pixels in an image sensor, wherein each of the unit pixels has a light sensing means for receiving light from an object and for generating photoelectric charges, an amplification means for amplifying an input signal to output an amplified signal, a first switching means for transferring the photoelectric charges from the light sensing means as the input signal to the amplifying means, a second switching means for transferring a reset voltage level from a voltage source to the light sensing means and the amplification means, and a third switching means for outputting the amplified signal and the reset voltage level as unit pixel output signals, the method comprising the steps of:a) controlling the first switching means, the second switching means and the third switching means to provide the reset voltage level to the light sensing means in order to make a fully depleted region in the light sensing means; b) after a first predetermined period from the completion of the step a), turning off the second switching means, while the first switching means and the third switching means are kept on a turned-off state; and c) within a second predetermined period from the completion of the step b), turning on the third switching means, while the first switching means and the second switching means are kept on the turned-off state, to thereby output the reset voltage level as a unit pixel output signal.