Optical reader having improved back-illuminated image sensor

An optical reading device for collecting and processing symbology data comprising:

• a back-illuminated image sensor for converting light reflected from an information bearing indicia (IBI) into output signals representative thereof;
• receive optics for directing light from a target to the back-illuminated image sensor;
• a processor for decoding the output signals;
• an illumination source for generating illumination light illuminating the target and illumination optics for directing the illumination light onto the target;
• a housing encompassing the back-illuminated image sensor, receive optics and illumination source adapted for hand held operation
• wherein an incident light beam is irradiated to a back face of a chip opposite to another face or surface of the chip on which electrodes are disposed and the back-illuminated image sensor comprises a light converting portion for each pixel on the back face side of the chip, and is provided with portions for processing signal charges.