In order to fully exploit the physics potential of the future high energy e
(+) e(-) linear collider, a Vertex Tracker able to provide particle track e
xtrapolation with very high resolution is needed. Hybrid Si pixel sensors c
onstitute an attractive technology due to their fast read-out capabilities
and radiation hardness. A novel pixel detector layout with interleaved cell
s has been developed to improve the single point resolution. Results of the
characterisation of the first processed prototypes by electrostatic measur
ements and charge collection studies are discussed. (C) 2001 Elsevier Scien
ce B.V. All rights reserved.