Raspberry Pi Camera Module V2 

The Raspberry Pi Camera Module V2 is an official camera accessory developed by the Raspberry Pi Foundation, designed to interface seamlessly with Raspberry Pi single-board computers. It is compact, lightweight, and delivers high-quality image and video capture capabilities, making it ideal for a wide range of applications in education, DIY projects, robotics, and research.

At its core, the module features the Sony IMX219 8-megapixel sensor, a back-illuminated CMOS sensor that captures still images at resolutions up to 3280 x 2464 pixels. It supports high-definition video capture, including 1080p at 30 frames per second, 720p at 60 fps, and 480p at 90 fps, enabling smooth real-time video applications such as surveillance, live streaming, and computer vision.

The Camera Module V2 uses a fixed-focus lens and connects to the Raspberry Pi via the Camera Serial Interface (CSI) using a 15-pin ribbon cable. It is compatible with all models of the Raspberry Pi that include a CSI connector, such as the Raspberry Pi 4, 3, 2, and Zero (with an adapter).

Software support is extensive, with the camera now primarily managed through the libcamera framework, which replaced the legacy raspistill and raspivid tools. Developers can access camera functions using programming languages like Python (via picamera2), C++, or integrate with OpenCV for computer vision tasks. The module can be used for projects involving object detection, motion tracking, time-lapse imaging, and AI-based visual analysis.

Its key advantages include high image quality, low power consumption, ease of use, and strong integration with the Raspberry Pi ecosystem. Limitations include its fixed-focus lens, which is not suitable for close-up macro work, and the absence of advanced features like autofocus or onboard image stabilization.

Key Specifications:

• Sensor: Sony IMX219

• Resolution: 8 MP (3280 × 2464)

• Video: 1080p30, 720p60, 480p90

• Lens: Fixed focus

• Interface: CSI (15-pin ribbon cable)

• Size: 25 mm × 23 mm × 9 mm

• Weight: ~3 grams

Applications:

• Surveillance & Security Systems

• Robotics & Autonomous Vehicles

• AI & Machine Learning Projects

• Environmental Monitoring

• Educational Tools

• Face/Object Detection and Tracking

Conclusion:

The Raspberry Pi Camera Module V2 is a reliable and cost-effective imaging solution, suitable for both beginners and advanced developers. Its strong community support, ease of programming, and seamless integration with Raspberry Pi hardware make it a staple in the maker and academic communities.