October 27, 2026

Gpixel (stock code: 03277.HK) today announced the GSENSE9016BSI, a next-generation, large-format 16.7 MP backside-illuminated scientific CMOS image sensor. Built on a new architecture and manufacturing process, the sensor delivers improved sensitivity, lower noise and higher quantum efficiency compared with the previous generation. It is designed as a core imaging component for demanding applications including astronomical observation, transmission electron microscopy and life-science imaging.

• Seamless Compatibility: Package, Pixel Size and Resolution

Since its introduction, the GSENSE4040BSI has earned strong and sustained market acceptance in electron microscopy and astronomical imaging, supported by its proven pixel architecture, optical format and resolution. As its next-generation successor, the GSENSE9016BSI retains the 9 µm × 9 µm pixel size and 4096 (H) × 4096 (V) resolution, while increasing peak quantum efficiency to 95%.

The GSENSE9016BSI can be integrated without changes to the existing optical design. It also uses the same ceramic package as the GSENSE4040BSI, simplifying camera integration and helping customers reduce development effort.

• Comprehensive Performance Improvements

Low-light imaging applications such as astronomy, transmission electron microscopy and life sciences often rely on long exposures to accumulate weak signals. Quantum efficiency, read noise and dark current are therefore critical performance parameters.

To address these requirements, the GSENSE9016BSI incorporates optimizations in the backside-illumination process, pixel design and readout circuitry. Read noise has been reduced to approximately one-third of the previous generation, reaching just 0.7 e⁻. Dark current is 0.04 e⁻/pixel/s at −30 °C. The combination of lower read noise and dark current improves weak-signal detection while reducing the need for deep cooling and easing system thermal-management requirements, giving camera designers greater flexibility.

Performance comparison: temporal noise, dynamic range and maximum frame rate

The GSENSE9016BSI features a dual-gain architecture supporting both high-dynamic-range (HDR) and standard high-speed (STD) operating modes. It achieves up to 44 fps in STD mode and up to 104 dB dynamic range in HDR mode. A new 14-bit ADC option further expands system flexibility and enables adaptation to a broader range of imaging scenarios.

Operating-mode performance overview

• Enhanced Near-UV Sensitivity

As an upgrade to the GSENSE4040BSI, the GSENSE9016BSI also provides significantly enhanced sensitivity in the near-ultraviolet range. Peak quantum efficiency between 200 nm and 280 nm increases from 50% to more than 80%, substantially improving ultraviolet signal capture. This makes the sensor well suited to applications such as semiconductor deep-ultraviolet inspection, fluorescent-protein detection and other UV imaging systems, creating new opportunities for high-performance scientific and industrial imaging.

Quantum-efficiency comparison: GSENSE9016BSI versus GSENSE4040BSI

Availability

Engineering samples and evaluation boards are available for order now.

Contact

Gpixel Microelectronics Inc.
Building #5, Optoelectronic Information Industrial Park
#7691 Ziyou Road, Changchun, Jilin, China
Tel: +86-431-85077785
info@gpixel.com
www.gpixel.com