The OmniVision OV6948 camera module (OVM6948-RALA) costs approximately $63 to $65 USD per unit from authorized distributors like DigiKey and LCSC Electronics. This Guinness World Record-holding image sensor measures just 0.575 mm × 0.575 mm, making it the smallest commercially available camera sensor designed primarily for medical endoscopy, minimally invasive surgical devices, and micro-inspection applications.
What is the OmniVision OV6948?
The OmniVision OV6948 represents a breakthrough in ultra-miniature imaging technology. Developed by OmniVision Technologies (now known as OMNIVISION), this CMOS image sensor earned the Guinness World Record for the smallest commercially available image sensor in 2019. The record was verified through product testing and market research conducted by Transparency Market Research.
At its core, the OV6948 uses OMNIVISION’s proprietary OmniBSI+ (backside illumination) pixel technology to deliver exceptional image quality despite its microscopic size. This technology positions the photodiodes closer to incoming light, significantly improving low-light sensitivity and overall image performance. The sensor was initially developed for medical applications requiring access to the smallest anatomical areas, but its capabilities have expanded to dental, veterinary, IoT, industrial inspection, wearable devices, and forensic applications.
The complete camera module version, designated OVM6948 CameraCubeChip, packages the sensor with integrated optics in a wafer-level assembly measuring 0.65 mm × 0.65 mm with a z-height of just 1.158 mm. This complete module can be integrated into medical devices with outer diameters as small as 1.0 mm, enabling visualization in blood vessels and anatomical passages previously inaccessible to traditional endoscopic equipment.
OV6948 Technical Specifications
Understanding the complete technical profile helps buyers evaluate whether this sensor meets their application requirements. The following specifications represent manufacturer-verified data from OMNIVISION’s official documentation.
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Sensor Size | 0.575 mm × 0.575 mm × 0.232 mm |
| Module Size (OVM6948) | 0.65 mm × 0.65 mm × 1.158 mm |
| Optical Format | 1/36 inch |
| Resolution | 200 × 200 pixels (40 Kpixels) |
| Pixel Size | 1.75 µm |
| Frame Rate | Up to 30 fps |
| Field of View | 120 degrees |
| Focus Range | 3 mm to 30 mm |
| Light Sensitivity | 1000 mV/lux-sec |
| Power Consumption | 25 mW |
| Output Interface | 4-pin analog |
| Data Transmission | Up to 4 meters with minimal noise |
| Illumination Technology | OmniBSI+ (Backside Illumination) |
The 25 mW power consumption deserves particular attention for medical applications. Lower power draw generates less heat at the distal tip of endoscopic devices, improving patient comfort and enabling longer-duration procedures without thermal concerns. The analog output interface with 4-pin connectivity simplifies integration while supporting reliable data transmission over distances up to 4 meters.
OV6948 Price Breakdown
Pricing for the OV6948 varies based on purchase channel, quantity, and module configuration. The following breakdown reflects current market pricing from verified distributor sources.
| Product Configuration | Price Range (USD) | Source |
|---|---|---|
| OVM6948-RALA (Single Unit) | $63.25 – $63.43 | DigiKey, LCSC |
| OVM6948-RALA-1B | $63.25 | DigiKey |
| OV6948 Bare Sensor (OEM) | $0.10 – $5.00 | Alibaba suppliers |
| Complete Endoscope Module | $110 – $160 | Chinese manufacturers |
| Evaluation Board and Kit | Quote required | OmniVision direct |
Several important pricing factors affect total project costs. Lead times for the OVM6948-RALA can extend beyond standard delivery windows since distributors do not typically stock this specialized component. DigiKey notes that orders trigger manufacturer shipment to their facility before fulfillment, adding time to the procurement process.
Volume pricing significantly reduces per-unit costs for production quantities. OEM manufacturers report price reductions from $160 to $110 per complete module at quantities exceeding 1,000 units. Minimum order quantities vary by supplier, with some requiring as few as 1-2 units while others mandate 5+ unit minimums.
For comparison with broader technology pricing trends, the OV6948’s specialized positioning contrasts with consumer imaging products. While this sensor targets professional medical and industrial markets, understanding how manufacturers price emerging AI and tech products provides useful context for technology investment decisions across categories.
OV6948 vs Competitor Sensors
The ultra-miniature camera sensor market includes several alternatives worth evaluating. Each offers different trade-offs between size, resolution, price, and application suitability.
| Feature | OmniVision OV6948 | ams-OSRAM NanEye | OmniVision OV6946 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sensor Size | 0.575 × 0.575 mm | 1.0 × 1.0 mm | Slightly larger |
| Resolution | 200 × 200 (40K) | 249 × 250 (62K) | 400 × 400 |
| Frame Rate | 30 fps | 58 fps max | 30 fps |
| Illumination | BSI (Color) | FSI | BSI |
| Output | Analog | Digital (LVDS) | Analog |
| Primary Market | Medical | Consumer/Wearables | Medical |
| Price Range | $63+ | $71 – $87 | Similar to OV6948 |
The ams-OSRAM NanEye family positions itself for consumer applications, including VR headsets, eye tracking, and smart building sensors. While offering higher resolution and faster frame rates, the NanEye uses front-side illumination technology that typically underperforms in low-light conditions compared to backside-illuminated sensors like the OV6948.
The OV6948 maintains distinct advantages for medical applications. As the only ultra-small chip-on-tip camera with backside illumination at this size class, it delivers superior low-light performance critical for internal body imaging, where LED illumination must be minimized to reduce heat generation.
Medical and Industrial Applications
The OV6948 addresses specific market demands in minimally invasive medical procedures and precision industrial inspection. Understanding these applications helps buyers evaluate fit for their requirements.
Medical Endoscopy Applications:
- Neuro procedures in narrow blood vessels
- Ophthalmic surgical visualization
- ENT (ear, nose, throat) examinations
- Cardiac catheterization imaging
- Spinal procedure guidance
- Urology and gynecology procedures
- Arthroscopy joint visualization
- Disposable guidewire cameras
- Single-use catheter devices
The global endoscopy devices market reached approximately $61 billion in 2024, with projections indicating growth to $76-88 billion by 2030-2034. This expansion, driven by increasing preference for minimally invasive procedures and growing demand for disposable devices to reduce cross-contamination risks, creates sustained demand for ultra-miniature imaging sensors.
Industrial and Emerging Applications:
- Micro-inspection devices for quality control
- Forensic investigation equipment
- Veterinary diagnostic tools
- Dental imaging systems
- IoT sensor networks
- Wearable device cameras
- Robotics vision systems
The shift toward disposable medical devices particularly benefits OV6948 adoption. Healthcare facilities increasingly prioritize single-use equipment to eliminate reprocessing costs and infection risks associated with reusable endoscopes. This trend drives demand for cost-effective miniature cameras that can be economically integrated into disposable designs.
For businesses exploring other technology sectors, similar miniaturization trends appear across diverse markets. The precision engineering required for sensors like the OV6948 shares technological foundations with innovations in immersive entertainment systems and consumer electronics where compact, high-performance components enable new product categories.
Where to Buy OV6948?
Procurement channels vary based on quantity requirements, technical support needs, and regional availability. The following options serve different buyer profiles.
Authorized Electronic Distributors:
- DigiKey (OVM6948-RALA, OVM6948-RALA-1B)
- Arrow Electronics
- LCSC Electronics
- Mouser Electronics (limited availability)
OEM and Volume Procurement:
- Direct OmniVision sales for development kits
- Chinese manufacturing partners for integrated modules
- Medical device component specialists
Key Procurement Considerations:
- Verify ISO 13485 certification for medical-grade applications
- Confirm RoHS and REACH compliance documentation
- Request evaluation samples before production orders
- Plan for extended lead times on specialized configurations
- Consider duty and tariff implications for international shipments
Buyers should note that DigiKey and similar distributors may apply tariffs for shipments to certain regions. Tariff costs calculate during checkout and vary based on destination country regulations.
Total Cost of Ownership Analysis
Beyond unit pricing, complete project budgeting requires accounting for integration, development, and compliance costs.
Development Phase Costs:
- Evaluation kits and development boards (quote required)
- Engineering time for optical integration
- Software development for image processing
- Prototype iterations and testing
Production Costs:
- Per-unit sensor cost ($63+ at low volumes)
- Assembly and integration labor
- Quality testing and validation
- Packaging and handling
Compliance and Certification:
- ISO 13485 quality management system maintenance
- FDA or CE marking for medical devices
- Biocompatibility testing for patient-contact applications
- Sterilization validation for disposable devices
Medical device manufacturers should anticipate total development costs significantly exceeding component costs. Regulatory approval processes, clinical validation, and quality system requirements represent substantial investments regardless of sensor selection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the OmniVision OV6948 price per unit?
The OVM6948-RALA camera module costs approximately $63.25 to $63.43 USD from authorized distributors like DigiKey and LCSC Electronics. OEM pricing for bare sensors and volume orders offers lower per-unit costs.
Is the OV6948 the smallest camera sensor available?
Yes, the OV6948 holds the Guinness World Record for the smallest commercially available image sensor at 0.575 mm × 0.575 mm. This record was verified in 2019 through independent market research.
What resolution does the OV6948 provide?
The OV6948 captures 200 × 200 pixel images (40 Kpixels total) at up to 30 frames per second with a 120-degree field of view.
Can I buy single units of the OV6948?
Yes, authorized distributors sell single units, though lead times may be extended since this specialized component is not typically stocked. Some suppliers require minimum orders of 2-5 units.
What industries use the OV6948 sensor?
Primary applications include medical endoscopy, surgical catheters, dental imaging, veterinary devices, industrial micro-inspection, forensics, and IoT sensor systems.
Does the OV6948 work in low-light conditions?
Yes, the OV6948 uses OmniBSI+ backside illumination technology with 1000 mV/lux-sec sensitivity, delivering excellent low-light performance for internal body imaging applications.
What is the difference between OV6948 and OVM6948?
The OV6948 refers to the bare image sensor, while OVM6948 designates the complete CameraCubeChip module including integrated optics and wafer-level packaging ready for device integration.
Are there medical certifications for OV6948?
The sensor component itself does not carry medical device certification. Device manufacturers integrating the OV6948 must obtain appropriate regulatory approvals (FDA, CE marking, etc.) for their complete medical devices.
Sources links
OmniVision Official Product Page (OV6948 Image Sensor)
https://www.ovt.com/products/ov6948/
DigiKey Distributor Pricing (OVM6948-RALA-1B)
https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/omnivision-technologies-inc/OVM6948-RALA-1B/14000627