ams OSRAM won 2025 Best of Sensors in Imaging & Optical Sensing for its AS5920M Photon Counting Module.
The awards ceremony took place during the 40th annual Sensors Converge event in June in Santa Clara, CA, recognizing the most cutting-edge technologies across the sensors, electronics, and embedded systems landscape. A panel of industry judges evaluated entries based on innovation, market value, and their ability to address critical challenges in the industry.
The AS5920M Photon Counting Module represents a fundamental shift in medical imaging technology by detecting individual X-ray photons rather than measuring radiation intensity indirectly like conventional detectors. This capability enables CT scanners to dramatically reduce radiation doses while maintaining or even improving image quality and resolution. The module addresses a critical challenge in healthcare, particularly for pediatric and screening applications where minimizing radiation exposure is essential for patient safety.
At the heart of the AS5920M’s innovation is its 4-side Buttable System-In-Package design, which integrates three AS5920 photon counting ICs and passive components into a single module. This approach eliminates the need for external components and reduces bill of materials while simplifying system integration. The 72x24 pixel module can be connected in any direction to create large detector areas required for clinical CT applications, offering unprecedented flexibility for system developers.
The module delivers ultra-high spatial resolution with detector pixels nine times smaller than conventional CT systems. Combined with adjustable energy thresholds, this precision enables material differentiation and provides additional diagnostic information that wasn’t previously available. The AS5920M operates in both paralyzable and non-paralyzable counting modes, supporting input count rates up to 250 million counts per second per pixel while maintaining excellent energy resolution.
Power efficiency is another standout feature, with the module consuming as little as 0.58 mW per pixel in paralyzable mode. The ultra-low noise performance reaches down to 330 electrons, achieving an energy resolution of approximately 3.5 keV FWHM. These specifications translate into clearer images with better contrast while minimizing noise and distortion.
When presenting the award, judges commented that the AS5920M “can have great ROI in a high-impact benefit in fields like pediatric imaging and cancer screening.” They praised the module’s ability to enable next-generation CT scanners with precision imaging in sensitive use cases, noting that “shifting to true photon counting is a notable engineering accomplishment.”
The clinical applications for the AS5920M span a broad range of medical specialties, from oncology to cardiovascular treatment. By enabling early diagnosis through improved image quality at reduced radiation doses, the module significantly extends the application range of CT scanners for regulatory-approved diagnostic tasks and patient screening applications. This advancement is particularly valuable for routine screenings and pediatric imaging where radiation exposure must be minimized.
The AS5920M’s technical specifications include 1,728 channels in a 24.52 mm x 8.75 mm package, with integration times as low as 104 microseconds and frame rates up to 9,615 frames per second. The module features up to five selectable comparators with 8-bit adjustable thresholds, providing 0.7 keV resolution per bit for precise energy discrimination. Static leakage compensation handles up to 250 nA, with dynamic compensation reaching 700 nA in high range mode.
ams OSRAM, a global leader in intelligent sensors and emitters, continues to push the boundaries of medical imaging technology with solutions that combine engineering excellence with cutting-edge innovation. The company’s commitment to advancing CT technology addresses both premium market segments requiring the highest performance and price-sensitive segments needing cost-effective solutions. With over 110 years of industry experience and approximately 19,700 employees worldwide, ams OSRAM maintains its position at the forefront of light and sensor innovation.
To discover other companies providing innovative sensors and the complete list of 2025 winners, visit the Best of Sensors Awards announcement.