STMicroelectronics STV-974/552S-R02

Overview

STV-974/552S-R02 from STMicroelectronics is a demonstration board built around the STV0974E imaging mobile DSP and VS6552 CMOS image sensor module, mounted via socket interface for rapid prototyping. It supports 30 fps VGA streaming, MJPEG compression, I²C communications, 1.8 V operation, and features automatic exposure control with anti-flicker, pixel defect correction, and VisionLink connectivity to SmOP.

For engineers reviewing the STV-974/552S-R02 datasheet, STV-974/552S-R02 pinout, STV-974/552S-R02 application, or STV-974/552S-R02 equivalent, this board enables rapid validation of mobile imaging signal chain performance, low-power still/live capture, and USB 2.0–based host integration in embedded vision development.

Technical Context

The board implements a complete imaging subsystem using the STV0974E DSP as the real-time image processor and the VS6552 as a 1.3 MP SmOP (Small Optical Package) CMOS sensor. It leverages VisionLink-a proprietary high-speed parallel interface-for low-noise sensor-to-DSP data transfer, supporting RGB, YCbCr, and JPEG coding formats.

It operates at 1.8 V core supply, integrates parameterized ViewFinder functionality, arbitrary cropping, downscale 'MMS Zoom', and DSP-based noise reduction. USB 2.0 serves as the host interface, enabling live streaming and configuration via included PC software under Windows 2000/XP.

Key Specifications

Availability

STV-974/552S-R02 is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for mobile imaging evaluation, USB-based vision prototyping, and SmOP sensor integration requiring stable component supply and documented reference design support.

Supply support for STV-974/552S-R02 includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.

Manufacturer

STMicroelectronics is a global semiconductor leader headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, specializing in microcontrollers, analog ICs, power management, and imaging solutions for automotive, industrial, and consumer markets.

This board belongs to ST's mobile imaging reference design portfolio, developed to accelerate time-to-demonstration for camera-enabled handheld devices using their STV0974E DSP and VS6552 SmOP sensor platform.

FAQ

What is the primary function of the STV-974/552S-R02 board?

The STV-974/552S-R02 is a demonstration board designed to showcase real-time imaging capabilities of the STV0974E DSP and VS6552 CMOS sensor. It enables live VGA streaming at 30 fps, MJPEG encoding, and configurable image processing features including auto-exposure and white balance-all accessible via USB 2.0 and PC software.

How does the socket-mounted VS6552 differ from flex-mounted variants like R01?

The R02 variant mounts the VS6552 SmOP sensor on a socket, allowing quick sensor replacement or rework without soldering. In contrast, R01 uses flex attachment-permanent and optimized for mechanical stability. Socket mounting supports iterative optical alignment, sensor version swapping, and failure analysis during early development.

Does this board support standalone operation without a host PC?

No. The STV-974/552S-R02 requires connection to a Windows PC via USB 2.0 and relies on the included application software for configuration, streaming control, and feature activation. It lacks onboard memory, display, or autonomous firmware execution capability.

What software and OS versions are officially supported?

The board supports Windows 2000 with SP4 or Windows XP, requiring an Intel or NEC-based USB 2.0 host controller, ≥256 MB RAM, and a 32-bit color AGP graphics card capable of 1024×768 resolution. No official support exists for Windows Vista or later, Linux, or macOS.