OV2640 Camera Module – 2MP CMOS Sensor for Surveillance & Monitoring

SKU: FA1045-0-1
Image Sensor

OmniVision OV2640 CMOS Sensor (1/4 inch)
Effective Pixels

1600 x 1200 (UXGA, 2MP Max)
Operating Voltage

3.3V DC (I/O levels are 3.3V tolerant)
Power Consumption

~125mA typical (active)
Output Formats

JPEG, YUV/YCbCr 4:2:2, RGB565/555, Grayscale
Interface Type

8-bit Parallel Data Bus, SCCB (I2C compatible) Configuration Interface
Max Frame Rate

Up to 15 FPS (UXGA), 30 FPS (SVGA)
Operating Temperature

-30°C to 70°C
Dimensions

Typically 28mm x 28mm
OV2640 Camera Module: 2MP CMOS Sensor for Surveillance & Monitoring 
The OV2640 Camera Module offers a powerful yet cost-effective imaging solution for surveillance, monitoring, and embedded vision applications. Built around the 2-megapixel OmniVision OV2640 CMOS sensor, this module delivers high-resolution images up to 1600×1200 pixels (UXGA). 
It is highly versatile, supporting various output formats including raw RGB, YUV, and crucially, onboard JPEG compression. This integrated compression capability significantly reduces data bandwidth requirements, enabling seamless integration with powerful microcontrollers like the STM32, ESP32, and other ARM-based systems often used in IoT and monitoring projects. With features like automatic exposure and gain control, the OV2640 ensures clear imagery across different lighting conditions, making it an ideal choice for smart surveillance cameras, remote monitoring systems, and advanced robotics. 
Key Features
  • High-Resolution Sensor: Captures clear images with a maximum resolution of 2 Megapixels (1600×1200 UXGA).
  • Onboard JPEG Encoding: Compresses raw image data internally, facilitating transmission and storage using microcontrollers with limited RAM.
  • Flexible Output Formats: Supports multiple output options including JPEG (compressed), YUV/YCbCr, RGB565/555, and Grayscale.
  • Intelligent Image Control: Automatic functions such as Auto Exposure Control (AEC), Auto Gain Control (AGC), and Auto White Balance (AWB) are managed on-chip.
  • Wide Compatibility: Designed for integration with 3.3V microcontrollers (STM32, ESP32) using a standard 8-bit parallel data interface and I2C (SCCB) configuration bus.
  • M12 Lens Mount: Features a standard M12 lens interface, allowing users to swap the stock lens for specialized focal lengths or wide-angle options if needed for specific surveillance needs.
  • Low Power Consumption: Efficient design suitable for continuous monitoring applications. 
Technical Parameters (Specifications)
Parameter  Value/Description
Image Sensor OmniVision OV2640 CMOS Sensor (1/4 inch)
Effective Pixels 1600 x 1200 (UXGA, 2MP Max)
Operating Voltage 3.3V DC (I/O levels are 3.3V tolerant)
Power Consumption ~125mA typical (active)
Output Formats JPEG, YUV/YCbCr 4:2:2, RGB565/555, Grayscale
Interface Type 8-bit Parallel Data Bus, SCCB (I2C compatible) Configuration Interface
Max Frame Rate Up to 15 FPS (UXGA), 30 FPS (SVGA)
Operating Temperature -30°C to 70°C
Dimensions Typically 28mm x 28mm
Usage Instructions
Interfacing the OV2640 requires a microcontroller that can manage a high volume of I/O pins and handle the timing of the parallel data bus. 
Hardware Connection Notes:
  • Logic Levels: This module operates strictly on 3.3V logic. Connecting directly to 5V MCUs like the standard Arduino Uno will damage the sensor. Use logic level converters or a 3.3V specific MCU (STM32, ESP32, Raspberry Pi GPIO).
  • Pin Requirements: A total of around 15+ pins are needed (8 data pins, 2 I2C pins, VSYNC, HREF, PCLK, XCLK, etc.).
  • Data Storage: The camera generates data rapidly. To store images for surveillance, the data stream must be buffered in RAM or written directly to an SD card module connected to your MCU. 
Software & Programming:
  1. I2C Configuration: The host MCU sends configuration commands over the SCCB (I2C) interface to set parameters like resolution, exposure, and JPEG output mode.
  2. Parallel Data Capture: Code is required to listen for synchronization signals (VSYNC and HREF) and capture the 8-bit data stream on the PCLK (Pixel Clock) edge.
  3. Driver Availability: Specific drivers and examples are widely available for the STM32F4/F7 series and the ESP32-CAM platform. 
Q: Can this module stream live video for real-time monitoring?

Yes, it can stream video at up to 30 FPS at SVGA resolution (800×600) or 15 FPS at 2MP (1600×1200). The speed depends heavily on the host microcontroller’s ability to process and transmit the data (e.g., via Wi-Fi or Ethernet).

Q: What is needed to save the captured images?

You need three things: 1) A microcontroller to receive the data, 2) an external storage solution like an SD card module, and 3) firmware that implements a file system (FATFS) to write the JPEG data to the card.

Q: Is the image quality suitable for commercial surveillance products?

The OV2640 provides an excellent cost-to-performance ratio for entry-level monitoring and hobbyist applications. For professional security systems requiring high dynamic range, specific low-light performance, or formal regulatory certification, industrial-grade sensors are often used instead.

Q: I am a business buyer. Does this support night vision or IR?

This specific module listing typically refers to a standard visible-light lens with an IR-cut filter. Versions designed for “night vision” are available and feature no IR-cut filter and usually include external IR LEDs. Please verify the specific filter installation upon purchase. 

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