Physics

Frame (networking)

Spatial light modulator

Optics

Computer graphics (images)

Pixel

Cardinal point

Artificial intelligence

Computer science

Computer vision

Telecommunications

Image sensor

Detector

Nature Photonics

Modern digital cameras employ silicon focal plane array (FPA) image sensors featuring millions of pixels. However, it is possible to make a camera that only needs one pixel. In these cameras a spatial light modulator, placed before or after the object to be imaged, applies a time-varying pattern and synchronized intensity measurements are made with a single-pixel detector. The principle of compressed sensing then allows an image to be generated. As the approach suits a wide a variety of detector technologies, images can be collected at wavelengths outside the reach of FPA technology or at high frame rates or in three dimensions. Promising applications include the visualization of hazardous gas leaks and 3D situation awareness for autonomous vehicles. Rather than requiring millions of pixels, it is possible to make a camera that only needs one pixel. This Review details the working principle, advantages, technical considerations and future potential of single-pixel imaging.

Principles and prospects for single-pixel imaging