IMX462 in C3 family – details

We’re expanding the Kurokesu camera family with new models built around the Sony IMX462 image sensor – a standout performer in low-light and near-infrared environments. Designed for starlight-level sensitivity, this sensor offers exceptional performance in dim scenes.

Sensor specifications

The Sony IMX462 is a 1/2.8″ CMOS sensor optimized for low-light imaging, featuring high sensitivity, low dark current, and enhanced NIR performance. It supports 1080p at up to 120 fps and is ideal for industrial, surveillance, and scientific applications.

Low-Light and NIR Sensitivity Comparison

The IMX462 sensor significantly enhances both visible-light and near-infrared (NIR) performance compared to the IMX290 used in our earlier C1-PRO and C2 cameras.

Visible-Light Sensitivity (G Sensitivity at 1/30s Exposure)

Near-Infrared (NIR) Sensitivity at 1000nm

Compared to the previous IMX290 sensor, the new IMX462 offers more than double the sensitivity in low light and near-infrared conditions. At 1000nm, the color version reaches ~35% relative response, while the monochrome variant, free of a Bayer filter, extends sensitivity up to ~40%.

The IMX462 sensor exhibits a notably flatter and higher spectral response curve in the NIR region compared to the IMX290. This characteristic allows for improved performance in low-light and NIR applications, providing clearer images where the IMX290’s sensitivity diminishes.

Footprint

All new IMX462-based cameras share a compact 26 × 26mm board size with an M12 lens mount. Lens mounting holes are spaced 20mm apart, and four M2 mounting holes are positioned on a 22mm square. Cameras are available with either a USB interface or a 4-lane CSI2 MIPI interface via a standard 22-pin, 0.5 mm pitch connector.

Connectivity

IMX462-based cameras are available with USB and CSI2 MIPI interfaces, offering flexibility for both embedded and general-purpose applications.

USB-C

The USB variant uses a stacked board design that separates the image sensor from the system-on-chip. This reduces heat transfer to the sensor, improves mechanical compactness, and enables a modular camera layout. USB models are fully UVC compliant and expose standard controls (exposure, gain, white balance) via the operating system. Each unit includes an onboard EEPROM for saving last-used settings and comes with a unique serial number – making multi-camera setups on a single host seamless.

CSI2 MIPI

The CSI2 version is a direct evolution of our earlier IMX477_Z1_LEGACY design. It connects via a standard 22-pin, 0.5 mm pitch FFC connector and supports 4 MIPI lanes. Synchronization and trigger signals are routed through a dedicated 5-pin 1mm pitch connector (Wurth Electronics 665305124022), offering integration options for precision applications. High-quality 22 to 15pin Kurokesu 687.0832.10 FFC cable is also available for compatibility with Raspberry Pi and similar platforms.

Camera variants

The C3-462 series includes both USB and CSI2 MIPI models, available in color and monochrome versions. The most common daylight configuration is the C3-462C, a USB camera with CS-mount and a visible band-pass (IRCUT) filter – essential for real-life colors. Board-level options include C3-462C-M12 and C3-462C-M12L for compact integration.

CSI2 variants are labeled 462C-CSI-M12 and 462C-CSI-M12L, offering the same sensor performance with a direct MIPI interface for embedded platforms.

For low-light and infrared applications, monochrome models like C3-462M-NF, C3-462M-NIR1, 462M-CSI-M12, and 462M-CSI-M12L deliver high sensitivity without the limitations of a color filter. These are preferred where NIR illumination is used or maximum low-light performance is needed.

Other filter and chroma combinations are available for specialized use cases.

M12 vs M12L mount

M12 and M12L mounts differ by their back focal length to support various lens types. M12 (9.5 mm) is suited for ultra-compact lenses, while M12L (14.7 mm) accommodates standard or longer lenses. Using the wrong combination of lens and mount may prevent the camera from achieving proper focus, as some wide-angle lenses require shorter flange distances. The mount variant must match the intended lens class to ensure optical compatibility.

Boxed camera filters

Standard boxed cameras with CS-mount are equipped with a visible band-pass (IRCUT) filter – model LP0689_P1010 – which blocks UV and IR light, ensuring real-life color reproduction. This configuration is ideal for general-purpose and daylight use.

Additional filter options are available and defined in the SKU:

Application Examples

Conferencing and collaboration setups
Combine multiple C3-462C cameras in a single system — one for person closeup, one for full-room view, and another pointing at a desk for handwritten notes or objects.

Remote monitoring and operation
C3-462C with IRCUT filter is a reliable default for recording or streaming in daylight – ideal for robotics, remote-controlled devices, or unattended site monitoring.

Embedded vision systems
462C-CSI-M12 integrates directly into compact platforms like Raspberry Pi or Jetson, suitable for edge computing or AI-based vision processing.

Industrial inspection
Use C3-462M-NIR1 with deep NIR illumination (850–1000 nm) to reveal defects in plastic, glass, or layered materials that are invisible in visible light.

ALPR/ANPR and vehicle profiling
Deploy multi-camera systems using a mix of C3 models – e.g., C3-462M-NIR1 for license plate recognition, C3-462C for full-vehicle view, and optionally a third for capturing the driver.

Biometry and face recognition
Use C3-462M or C3-462M-NIR1 under controlled IR lighting for identity verification, liveness detection, or gaze tracking.

Scientific and biomedical imaging
C3-462M-NF is well-suited for lab setups requiring high sensitivity across a broad spectrum – useful for fluorescence, spectral imaging, or process monitoring.

Summary and ordering

C3 series cameras based on the Sony IMX462 sensor are now available in USB and CSI2 MIPI variants, with CS-mount and M12 lens options. These cameras offer improved sensitivity compared to previous C2 models, particularly in low-light and near-infrared conditions.

Color versions with visible band-pass (IRCUT) filters are suitable for applications requiring consistent color reproduction under varying lighting. Monochrome versions without filters or with 850nm long-pass filters are recommended for infrared-illuminated environments where maximum sensitivity is needed – such as machine vision, eye tracking, or low-light monitoring.

Explore configurations and order here – early orders are now open:

• Boxed (CS mount)
• Board USB (M12 mount)
• Board CSI2 MIPI