In a move widely criticized as a bad decision, Sharp is going ahead with the production of 12-megapixel compact cameras that use their newly designed 1/1.7-inch image sensors. Using proprietary technology, Sharp claims to have achieved the industry’s smallest-class pixel size of 1.88 µm square to make this possible.
Now, packing more megapixels in a very tiny CCD will most likely result in unacceptable noise levels at moderate to high ISO settings, and that means bad pictures.
According to Adorama photo experts, it is unlikely there will be enough room on the sensor for the septum that typically separates one pixel from another. This septum prevents light from spilling over and into neighboring pixels and therefore reduces noise.
They said digital SLRs which boast 12MP offer better image quality because the sensors are larger, allowing for bigger pixels and room for sufficient-sized septums.
[Via: Adorama.com]