Electronic still camera

Abstract

Electronic imaging apparatus, preferably an electronic still camera, employs an inexpensive information-recording medium such as audio-grade magnetic tape for 'capturing' scene images. The camera includes a charge coupled device comprised of an array of photosensitive elements which form a charge pattern corresponding to an optical image projected onto the elements during an exposure interval. A charge transfer circuit converts the charge pattern into a high frequency pulsed electrical signal immediately following the exposure interval to remove the charge from the device in a short period of time to maintain unwanted 'dark current' at a low level. Each pulse represents the image-forming light projected onto a particular photosensitive element. A high speed analog-to-digital converter converts these pulses to multi-bit digital words in real time. A digital buffer memory temporarily stores these words, then retransmits them at a rate that is compatible for recording on the audio-grade tape. The image can be displayed on a conventional television receiver by reading the recorded words from the tape and converting them to a format compatible with the signal-receiving circuitry of the television.