Imagers with error checking capabilities

A method of operating an imager for real time error detection, the method comprising:

• with control circuitry, generating control signals for an array of pixels that direct the array of pixels to produce image signals;
• with the control circuitry, providing the control signals to an array of error detection circuits;
• and
• with the array of error detection circuits, producing an identifier based on the control signals, wherein the array of pixels is arranged in rows and columns, and wherein the array of error detection circuits is arranged in matching rows and columns.

A system, comprising:

• a central processing unit;
• memory;
• input-output circuitry;
• and
• an imaging device, wherein the imaging device comprises:
• a pixel array;
• control circuitry that generates control signals for the pixel array;
• and
• an array of error-detection circuits that receive the control signals from the control circuitry and produces identifier signals based on the control signals, each error detection circuit in the array of error detection circuits comprising:
• an input circuit;
• and
• a transfer gate coupled between the input circuit and a floating diffusion node.