An image signal processor is a specialized computer processor used for processing images and videos. It is also generally referred to as an image processor and in some cases, an image processing unit or IPU or image processing engine, and it is found in digital cameras, as well as other consumer electronic devices such as smartphones, tablet computers, and laptops.
What Does an Image Processor Do: Understanding the Purpose of an Image Signal Processor
The purpose of an image signal processor is straightforward: process the image video captured by a particular device through automation using a computer algorithm. However, the entire details of image processing and the reason why there is a need to process a captured image or video are considerably complicated for several reasons.
Note that the semiconductor or photodiodes in an image sensor are inherently colorblind because they technically record shades of grey. The captured details are also not accurate in terms of brightness and noise is a natural byproduct of digital cameras.
Based on the aforementioned, the following are the four main functions of an image processor: bayer transformation that applies color filters to convert the image into full color, demosaicing to produce an appropriate color and brightness value for the pixel, noise reduction, and image sharpening to preserve the impression of depth, clarity and fine details.
It is also important to mention that digital image sensors have advanced throughout the years, thereby enabling them to capture images with a high number of pixels. A sensor capable of capturing pixel-dense data needs effective and efficient processing.
The speed of an image processor has become more critical. Photographers and consumer-level users of digital cameras and other consumer electronic devices such as smartphones must be able to shoot and capture images or videos successively without even noticing that there is a process going on under the hood.
A Look Into the Capabilities and Drawbacks: Advantages and Disadvantages of an Image Signal Processor
The advantages or benefits of an image signal processor depends on three major factors: the capabilities of the specific hardware; the capabilities of other hardware components, including the central processing unit, artificial intelligence or machine learning engines, the image sensor, and the quality of lenses; and the camera user interface.
Below are the specific capabilities and benefits:
• Improves Image Quality: A particular image processor can spell the difference between a high-quality image and an average-quality image. More advanced processors equip a digital camera and other devices with capabilities and features such as high dynamic range, low-light or night mode shooting, post-processing color grading and filters, automatic color correction, and subject-background separation.
• Reduces Stress of the Main Processor: It is also important to highlight that another advantage of an image signal processor or an image processor is that it is a dedicated computer processor and a co-processor that takes away the processing responsibility from a central processing unit. A co-processor allows other processors to focus on handling other tasks or system requirements.
• Provides Additional Features: Equipping a device with this co-processor, particularly a capable one, can also give it other features. Some image processors are capable of face recognition that can be used for biometrics-based security, augmented reality functionality for a more immersive user experience, and specific image recognition features such as image-to-text translation and image search capabilities.
Regarding its drawbacks or disadvantages, there is not much to talk about because an image processor is a standard component in a digital camera. Furthermore, for smartphones and other devices, its inclusion in a system-on-chip architecture demonstrates both the capabilities and benefits of integrated circuitry.
The following are the key drawbacks or limitations:
Nevertheless, for the sake of discussion, some of the notable disadvantages of an image signal processor include additional costs in manufacturing SoCs and related devices, thereby adding to the final consumer-end price point.
It is also important to reiterate the fact that not all image processors are created equally or the same. Some brands have advanced functionalities while others have average capabilities. Devices positioned as entry-level to mid-range products typically include average-quality processors that fall short of advanced ones.
These advanced processors are found in high-end and flagship devices. Their capabilities are demonstrated by the quality of the images taken, captured, and produced, as well as the range of additional features that enhance the image and overall user experience.
Furthermore, to maximize the capabilities of an image signal processor, manufacturers have paired them with other co-processors, such as a powerful central processor, an integrated graphics processor, and artificial engine or machine learning engines. The complexity of these integrated components has cost, performance, and power efficiency implications.
Then there is the need for software-hardware integration. The capabilities of an image processor can be maximized further by a suitable software. The software must be able to support and exploit the functions of the processor.
