How does the Xenon Flash in Lumia; or, if fact any compact device work

In summary, the conversation discusses the use of xenon flash in microprocessors and how they are minimized in cell phones due to the limitation of space for large capacitors. It also provides resources for further reading and suggests taking apart a device to understand how it works.
  • #1
PrashntS
25
0
I don't need basics, I know the causes how xenon flash "works" ; I need to know how do they minimise this kind of circuit in microprocessor?
camera-flash-diagram.gif

My question: The Flash tubes require kVs of potential difference to work. I am aware that big capacitors are required to make them work. This is okay upto digital cameras where they can put big capacitors.
But cell phones? I read somewhere that microprocessors can't have big capacitors. So how come they work?
 
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  • #2
Why do you think the capacitor is part of a micropocessor? It can be a standard capacitor, mounted separately.
 
  • #3
I mean to ask if there is some other work around. Putting massive capacitor in a cell phone is nearly impossible.
 
  • #4
here's some reading for you

http://www.osram-os.com/osram_os/en/press/press-releases/led-for-automotive%2c-consumer%2c-industry/2012/osram-oslux/index.jsp?mkturl=pr-OSLUX
http://www.xenon-technologies.com/userfiles/files/XEN003066YC_ProductCat_05oct10.pdf

http://powerelectronics.com/mobile/supercaps-lighten-load-led-flash-applicationsthese two describe cellphone xenon lamp drivers
http://cds.linear.com/docs/en/application-note/an98f.pdf
http://cds.linear.com/docs/en/application-note/an95f.pdf

Take a dead one apart and see how they did it.. you can become the expert !
 
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  • #5
From what I have seen capacitors in these devices are surprisingly small. Last year I have replaced the shutter button in my idiot camera, and from what I remember whole flash module was small enough to fit in my mobile - granted, my mobile is not the Lumia, but also the flash module was not designed to be slim.
 
  • #6
Most cell phones I have seen use LEDs.
 

1. How does the Xenon flash in Lumia (or any compact device) produce such bright light?

The Xenon flash in Lumia and other compact devices uses a high-voltage electrical discharge to ionize the Xenon gas inside the flash tube. This ionization process generates a bright, white light that is then directed towards the subject of the photo.

2. Can the Xenon flash in Lumia be manually adjusted for different lighting situations?

Yes, most compact devices with Xenon flashes have a manual mode where the user can adjust the intensity of the flash. This allows for more control over the lighting in the photo and can help prevent overexposure in low light situations.

3. How does the Xenon flash in Lumia compare to LED flashes in terms of brightness?

The Xenon flash in Lumia is generally much brighter than LED flashes. This is because the Xenon flash produces a short burst of intense light, while LED flashes emit a continuous, lower-intensity light. However, LED flashes are more energy-efficient and can be used for longer periods of time.

4. Does the Xenon flash in Lumia have any negative effects on the photo quality?

In some cases, the Xenon flash can create a harsh, unnatural light in photos. This can be especially noticeable in portraits, where the flash can wash out skin tones. However, the flash can also provide more even lighting in certain situations, reducing shadows and creating a more balanced photo.

5. How does the Xenon flash in Lumia work in conjunction with the camera's shutter speed?

The Xenon flash in Lumia works by emitting a bright burst of light for a very short period of time, usually around 1/1000th of a second. This means that the camera's shutter speed needs to be set accordingly to capture the full effect of the flash. In some cases, the flash can also be used to freeze motion in a photo, making it useful for capturing fast-moving subjects.

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