There’s probably more talk about sensors in digital photography than anything else, so here’s a run-down on sensor basics and everything you need to know to make sense of the jargon. First of all, sensors are made using two types of chip technology. They’re often used in sensor descriptions so it makes sense to mention […]
Effective pixels
Camera makers quote two megapixel figures. The bigger, 'gross' figure counts all the photosites on the sensor, but many of those around the edges are used for calibration and other technical purposes, so makers also quote the 'effective' pixels, which are the ones actually used to make the image. This is the important figure.