From subzero to desert heat: assured camera reliability through temperature testing

DXOMARK, with its long-standing history in camera performance evaluation, is now equipped to test cameras in thermal chambers, addressing the growing need for reliable camera systems in extreme environments—especially for the automotive industry. This new capability allows DXOMARK to assess image quality across a wide range of temperatures, a critical factor for automotive applications such as autonomous driving and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS). 

Why thermal testing matters for automotive cameras 

Automotive cameras must function reliably in extreme conditions, where temperatures can exceed 100°C – when a car is parked under the sun for example – or fall below freezing. Thermal expansion can significantly affect a camera’s sensor and optics, causing issues like loss of SNR and loss of sharpness. This is particularly important as the industry moves toward high-resolution, high-dynamic range sensors, which require precise alignment to avoid thermal defocus. DXOMARK’s thermal chamber testing allows us to simulate these harsh conditions and evaluate how well cameras maintain their performance, helping manufacturers ensure safety and efficiency. 

Free Report on Sheba’s Sharp-7 Autofocus Camera 

DXOMARK recently conducted a comprehensive evaluation of Sheba Microsystems’ Sharp-7 autofocus camera, utilizing its thermal chamber testing system. This advanced setup made it possible to thoroughly assess the Sharp-7’s performance across extreme temperature ranges (-40°C to 120°C), simulating the real-world conditions faced by automotive cameras. The thermal testing was crucial in confirming the Sharp-7’s autofocus technology as superior to state-of-the-art fixed-focus systems, particularly in maintaining image sharpness and quality even in the harshest environments. 

The full report, available for free, provides detailed insights into the camera’s performance and how it meets the rigorous demands of the automotive sector.  

By expanding its testing capabilities with the thermal chamber, DXOMARK continues to lead the way in camera performance evaluation, providing manufacturers with the tools they need to develop safer, more reliable systems for the future of autonomous driving. 

Partnering with DXOMARK has been instrumental in showcasing the impact of Sheba’s technology on the image quality of automotive cameras. With DXOMARK’s support, we’ve demonstrated that our autofocus solution can consistently deliver exceptional image quality, even in the most extreme temperature conditions, thereby paving the way for advancements in automotive safety.

Faez Ba-Tis, CEO and Co-founder of Sheba Microsystems

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