Endoscope Camera Module Embraces "Chinese Core", Domestic CMOS Sensors Open New Visions in Medical Imaging

In June 2025, Chinese chip design company SmartSens released the SC1400ME, a 2-megapixel CMOS image sensor specifically developed for medical endoscopes, marking the official entry of domestic high-end medical imaging sensors into the commercial application phase.

At the subsequent Shanghai Industrial Fair in September, SmartSens demonstrated the exceptional imaging performance of the SC1400ME through an endoscopic simulation device, revealing new possibilities for the development of endoscope camera modules.

The endoscope camera module, serving as the "eyes" for doctors to observe internal human tissues, is seeing its core component—the CMOS image sensor—advance towards smaller sizes and higher image quality. SmartSens' SC1400ME adopts a compact package, with its ultra-small footprint of 1.9mm × 2.5mm being sufficient to adapt to various types of slender medical endoscopes.

Meanwhile, Gpixel's GXS1508 sensor, released earlier in 2025, further reduced the chip size to 0.961mm x 0.961mm, demonstrating significant progress in the miniaturization of domestic sensors.

While pursuing miniaturization, improvements in imaging quality are equally critical. The SC1400ME uses a medical-specific square 1:1 resolution design, which better aligns with the imaging characteristics of endoscopes' circular tubes, providing doctors with a broader field of view.

Based on the advanced SmartClarity®-3 technology platform, this sensor achieves a peak quantum efficiency of 70% and a read noise of only 1.68e-, excelling in high color reproduction, high sensitivity, and low noise control, ensuring that doctors can accurately identify tissue abnormalities.

Power consumption control is directly related to patient safety and comfort. The issue of heat generation during endoscope operation has long been a concern in the medical field. SmartSens' SC1400ME, through its ultra-low power design of 84.8mW, significantly reduces heat generation at the distal end of the endoscope, resulting in more stable imaging and minimized impact on internal tissues.

Gpixel's GXS1508 consumes less than 20mW during full-speed operation, laying the foundation for the widespread application of disposable endoscopes.

Compatibility design expands application boundaries. The SC1400ME supports both MIPI and LVDS interfaces, allowing flexible compatibility with different host controllers. Gpixel offers its sensor in both chip form and integrated optical module forms. The GXSM1508 module features a 120° ultra-wide field of view, balancing light intake and viewing area requirements, enabling the use of disposable endoscopes in more departments such as respiratory medicine and urology.