Currently, the 4K 60FPS USB3.0 camera module developed by SincereFirst based on the Sony IMX678 sensor features core performance labels of "1/1.8-inch sensor + 2.0μm pixel + STARVIS 2 low-light technology + Clear HDR". It can meet the requirements for high-definition, high-frame-rate, and complex lighting environment imaging in scenarios such as security, industrial, and in-vehicle applications. To achieve equivalent performance—i.e., core indicators including stable 4K@60fps output, similar photosensitive size and pixel specifications, low-light imaging capability, HDR function, and compatibility with USB3.0 bandwidth and module integration needs—alternative image sensors must be screened based on three aspects: "parameter matching degree, module compatibility, and scenario adaptability". The following is an analysis of mainstream compliant sensors and their adaptability:
Core Specifications: Optical format of 1/1.7-inch, effective pixels of 8MP (3840×2160, 4K), pixel size of 1.85μm, support for 4K@60fps RAW output, equipped with the first-generation STARVIS low-light technology, and support for DOL HDR (Digital Overlap HDR).
Feasibility for USB3.0 Module Adaptation:
The output interface supports MIPI CSI-2, and can be converted to UVC protocol-compliant video streams via a USB3.0 bridge chip (e.g., ON Semiconductor USB3380). The bandwidth fully matches 4K@60fps. Its power consumption is close to that of the IMX678 (typical operating current < 120mA), requiring no modification to the module's power supply design.
Differences from the IMX678:
Low-light performance is slightly weaker but can meet non-extreme low-light scenarios. Its price is 15%-20% lower than that of the IMX678, making it suitable for USB3.0 modules sensitive to cost and with moderate low-light requirements.
Core Specifications: Optical format of 1/1.7-inch, effective pixels of 48MP, support for "4-pixel binning" technology, support for 4K@60fps YUV output, equipped with PureCel Plus-S low-light enhancement technology and HSR HDR.
Feasibility for USB3.0 Module Adaptation:
The 2.0μm pixel size after binning is consistent with that of the IMX678, ensuring comparable low-light light input. It supports MJPG/H.264 compressed output, which can be directly adapted to the UVC protocol of USB3.0 modules without additional ISP processing for compression logic. During module integration, only the pixel binning algorithm needs to be adjusted, and its physical size is close to that of the IMX678, requiring no modification to the lens holder design.
Differences from the IMX678:
It relies on pixel binning to achieve 4K resolution, resulting in slightly lower edge sharpness in dynamic images. However, it supports near-infrared light sensing, making it more suitable for USB3.0 modules requiring night vision functionality, and its price is on par with the IMX678.
Core Specifications: Optical format of 1/1.8-inch, effective pixels of 8MP (4K), pixel size of 2.0μm, support for 4K@60fps RAW12 output, equipped with SmartClarity 4.0 low-light technology and Real HDR .
Feasibility for USB3.0 Module Adaptation:
Specifically designed for security cameras, it supports wide-temperature operation from -30℃ to 85℃, making it more suitable for outdoor USB3.0 modules. The output interface is MIPI CSI-2 (8 channels), which can achieve "zero-latency transmission" via a USB3.0 chip, meeting the 24/7 4K@60fps recording needs of security scenarios. It is compatible with SMT (ROHS) processes and AA (Active Alignment) technology, ensuring module mass production consistency comparable to that of the IMX678.
Differences from the IMX678:
The STARVIS 2 technology offers better color reproduction in color low-light scenarios, while the SC830AI performs better in black-and-white/near-infrared scenarios. Its supply chain is mainly domestic, with a delivery cycle 30% shorter than that of the IMX678, making it suitable for localized USB3.0 module projects.
Core Specifications: Optical format of 1/1.7-inch, effective pixels of 8MP (4K), pixel size of 1.85μm, support for 4K@60fps RAW output, equipped with Nyxel low-light technology and DOL HDR.
Feasibility for USB3.0 Module Adaptation:
With an industrial-grade reliability design, it is suitable for industrial inspection USB3.0 modules. It supports "region of interest (ROI) cropping output", which can locally magnify details at 4K resolution, adapting to the "detail capture" needs of USB3.0 modules. Its driver supports Windows/Linux/UVC protocols and is well-compatible with development boards such as Raspberry Pi.
Differences from the IMX678:
Its power consumption is slightly higher, requiring minor adjustments to the module's power supply circuit. It lacks the "color fidelity" optimization of STARVIS 2, resulting in slightly larger color deviations in color scenarios, but performs more stably in industrial grayscale scenarios.
It is necessary to confirm whether the alternative sensor supports "continuous 4K@60fps output". Additionally, the deviation between the pixel size, sensor size and those of the IMX678 should be ≤ 10%. Low-light performance should be quantified through "low-light signal-to-noise ratio (SNR ≥ 30dB@10lux)" and "HDR dynamic range (≥ 110dB)" to prevent "disconnection between nominal parameters and actual imaging".
Priority should be given to sensors supporting the MIPI CSI-2 interface , which can reuse the USB3.0 bridge circuit and reduce PCB redesign costs. If a sensor only supports the LVDS interface, an additional interface conversion chip is required, which increases module complexity and power consumption—this is only recommended for special industrial scenarios. At the same time, it is necessary to confirm whether the sensor supports the "plug-and-play driver" required by the UVC protocol to avoid subsequent driver development time costs.
For security scenarios, the SC830AI is preferred; for industrial scenarios, the AR0820 is preferred; for cost-sensitive scenarios, the IMX415 is preferred; for night-vision color scenarios, the OV48C is preferred. In terms of the supply chain, it is necessary to confirm the mass production cycle of the sensor and price fluctuations .
Currently, there are no alternative sensors that "fully replicate the parameters of the IMX678". Selection should be guided by "core scenario requirements": if balancing low-light color reproduction and cost is the goal, the IMX415 is the most cost-effective choice; if a domestic supply chain and night-vision functionality are needed, the SC830AI is more suitable; if focusing on industrial high reliability, the AR0820 can meet the needs of harsh environments. Regardless of the sensor selected, it is necessary to verify "4K@60fps transmission stability" and "optical performance consistency" during the module development stage to ensure that the final product achieves core experience equivalence to the IMX678 module.