TSMC and Kodak signs technology agreements

Kodak introduces more 5 mega pixels DSC

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Ltd. (TSMC) and Eastman Kodak Co. have signed a technology licensing agreement for the manufacture of a new generation of CMOS image sensor (CIS) devices. Chris McNiffe, general manager of Kodak's image sensor solutions business said: "This agreement further expands Kodak's ability to meet the exploding demand for CIS devices used in consumer imaging applications." Under the agreement, TSMC extends its reach in the manufacture of CIS devices with the inclusion of a number of key proprietary KODAK technologies, including four-transistor (4T) pixel and pinned photo-diode pixel architectures.

The new generation of CIS devices that provide improved image quality, performance and resolution, and allow the manufacture of CIS pixels that approach the size of the smallest charged-coupled device (CCD) pixels offered today. "As the leading foundry for CMOS image sensors, TSMC is committed to providing the most advanced CIS technology for our customers," said Ken Chen, director of mainstream technology marketing at TSMC.

In local news, Kodak Taiwan has recently introduced its two latest digital still cameras (DSCs), the EasyShare V550 and V530, which they are aiming to capture bigger piece of digital camera's market in Taiwan. Tina Huang, marketing manager for Kodak Taiwan, said the company has so far introduced nine new models and will add at least four more this year, with aims to push its market share over 10%. V530 carries a tag price of NT$11,990 while V550 is NT$12,990.