Phase One Industrial’s new iXM camera and lens range. Image provided by Phase One Industrial.

Phase One Industrial, makers of medium format camera systems, have released a 100 megapixel, UAV-specific camera system based around the world’s fastest medium format imaging sensor.

The iXM 100MP’s sensor is the first to use backside-illumination technology, which provides high light sensitivity and extended dynamic range, according to Phase One — whose sensors are already renowned for their broad dynamic range.

This system has been engineered or surveying, mapping and inspection missions, with a robust case, IP53 weatherproofing, and a new range of lenses with a leaf-shutter system that supports capture up to 3 frames per second at a speed of 1/2500 second, and a guaranteed 500,000 actuations.

Fixed-focus 35mm and 80mm lenses provide superior image radiometric quality, high ground resolution, and large coverage for surveying applications, while the motorised focus 80mm and 150mm lenses are aimed at inspection applications. The motorised focus lenses have no external moving parts, and the focusing distance can be predefined based on flight planning, or by the operator, using a wireless remote control. Phase One said this range is best suited to capturing sharp and highly detailed images of multi-distance or 3D objects.

The iXM range also features new high-speed storage technology to handle the sensor’s extremely high frame rate, along with HDMI output from actual exposure to provide UAV operators with outage-free feedback of actual view, exposures, and camera status in overlays. The new platform includes USB-C and 10G ethernet connectivity, aimed at large UAVs and aircraft.

An Australian release date has not yet been announced.