SANTA CLARA, Calif., — June 15, 2015 — OMNIVISION Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: OVTI), a leading developer of advanced digital imaging solutions, announced today that it has partnered with preferred solution providers Precision Optics Corporation, Inc. (POC) and Fujikura Ltd. (Tokyo Stock Exchange: 5803) to develop the 160K CMOS imaging sensor (CIS) module, a quick go-to-market camera solution for OEMs. POC is a leader in designing and manufacturing micro-optics and associated medical imaging devices, and Fujikura is a leading miniature CMOS imaging module manufacturer.
Utilizing OMNIVISION’s new OV6946 CameraChip™ sensor with 400 x 400 pixel resolution, POC’s Microprecision™ lens technology, and Fujikura’s flexible micro-coaxial cable technology and small packaging capability, the 160K CIS module provides high quality images and video with a distal end diameter of only 1.60 mm.
“Working alongside two companies with such a rich history of producing exceptional medical imaging technology is truly a privilege. We welcome this collaboration with POC and Fujikura to develop an ultra-small camera module with best image quality, low power consumption and ease of integration for reusable endoscopes and other medical applications,” said Tehzeeb Gunja, senior marketing and business development manager at OMNIVISION. “Each company involved in the 160K CIS should be proud of its contribution.”
“This camera module has been designed specifically for medical applications with stringent bio-compatibility, sterilization and electrical requirements,” said Shingo Ishii, medical business development division, group leader at Fujikura. “The 160K CIS’s small footprint and power efficiency are critical features for this application area, and the solution is further complemented by the exceptional image quality made possible by both OMNIVISION’s OV6946 sensor and POC’s Microprecision lens.”
“We are very pleased to be working with OMNIVISION and Fujikura to develop custom micro devices that provide the highest quality imaging available to the medical market,” said Joe Forkey, CEO at POC. “We believe this will be a large and growing market, and are thrilled to be at the technological forefront with world class partners. All three companies share the goal of making small, high quality, and reusable endoscopes for minimally invasive medical procedures the standard wherever possible.”
Evaluation units of the 160K CIS module are currently available, and volume production is expected to begin in 2016. The 160K CIS module specification can be found on Fujikura’s website and videos demonstrating the 160K CIS module imaging can be found on POC’s website.
About Precision Optics Corporation
Precision Optics Corporation has been a leading developer and manufacturer of advanced optical instruments since 1982. Using proprietary optical technologies, the Company designs and produces next generation medical instruments, Microprecision™ micro-optics with characteristic dimensions less than 1 millimeter, and other advanced optical systems for a broad range of customers including some of the largest world-wide medical device companies. The Company’s innovative medical instrumentation line includes state-of-the-art endoscopes and endocouplers as well as custom illumination and imaging products for use in minimally invasive surgical procedures. The Company believes that current advances in its proprietary micro-optics and 3D imaging technologies present significant opportunities for expanding applications to numerous potential medical products and procedures. The Company’s website is www.poci.com.
About Fujikura
Fujikura Ltd. was established as an electrical wiring company in 1885. Ever since, Fujikura has always stayed ahead of the times with “tsunagu”-connection- technologies, and continues to deliver highly reliable products in a wide spectrum of fields including energy, telecommunications, electronics and automotive. Fujikura creates new value to customers and society by connecting a range of functions, information, and energy solutions. Based in Tokyo, Japan, Fujikura has been accelerating globalization and paving the way to new business areas. Over 20 years, Fujikura has been contributing to supply fiber optics to endoscope manufacturers. To focus on medical/nursing/health care, Fujikura formed Medical Business Development Division in 2013 to leverage products used in medical devices into more business. More information can be obtained by visiting: https://www.fujikura.co.jp/eng
Safe-Harbor Language
Certain statements in this press release, including statements regarding the expected benefits, performance, capabilities, and potential market appeal, as well as anticipated timing of mass production, of the OV6946 and/or systems incorporating the OV6946 (including the 160k CIS module), are forward-looking statements that are subject to risks and uncertainties. These risks and uncertainties, which could cause the forward-looking statements and the results of OMNIVISION, Precision Optics and/or Fujikura to differ materially, include, without limitation: potential errors, design flaws or other problems with OV6946 and/or systems incorporating the OV6946 (including the 160k CIS module), customer acceptance, demand, and other risks detailed from time to time in OMNIVISION’s Securities and Exchange Commission filings and reports, including, but not limited to, OMNIVISION’s annual report filed on Form 10-K and quarterly reports filed on Form 10-Q, and/or in the public statements of Precision Optics and/or Fujikura. OMNIVISION expressly disclaims any obligation to update information contained in any forward-looking statement.