A Bit About Us
Welcome to Texas! When the former Austin, Texas-based DVC Company joined the Thorlabs family in 2011 as Thorlabs Scientific Imaging (TSI), a couple of longtime Thorlabs employees, including Ralph Savioli, an electrical engineer, made the move to Austin. Ralph reports back, “Texans take the matter of state pride to extremes, so much so that you genuinely feel like you’re in a different country.” This is especially striking in Austin, where vibrant technology industries, entertainment venues, and academic institutions combine with the fierce Texas pride to form a truly unique environment to live and work. Consequently, Ralph got the idea to provide a Texas identity to the TSI products by creating a unique version of Thorlabs’ Face Value dog mascot that would appear on TSI documentation. Within their version, the dog sits on a burnt-orange map of Texas. Burnt orange is the predominant color of the University of Texas (UT), located in Austin. “You can’t go anywhere in Austin without encountering at least one person wearing an orange UT shirt—with Longhorns of course,” Ralph says, adding, “and these aren’t students; these are regular Austinites!”
Thorlabs Scientific Imaging added some Texas flair to the Face Value Dog Mascot
The TSI team’s devotion to their new mascot was obvious when Cindy, the wife of TSI’s general manager and a pastry chef, created an edible version to top a cake celebrating the team’s first release of a new scientific camera. Releasing a new camera is a major accomplishment for everyone on the team, and so a small celebration was definitely appreciated! Since that first party with the Face Value cake, TSI has taken to celebrating each new product release with lunch at one of Austin’s famous barbeque joints. As Ralph concludes, “Nothing compares with genuine Texas slow-cooked, smoked barbeque beef brisket, smoked sausage, coleslaw, ‘tater salad, and white bread!”
To celebrate their first product release, the Texas-based team enjoyed an edible version of Thorlabs’ Face Value Dog.
The Thorlabs Scientific Imaging Team in front of their Austin, Texas facility, which once served as the set for the movie Office Space.
306
Scientific Cameras
Selection Guide
CCD Cameras Overview
Compact CCD Cameras
Pages 308 - 311
Pages 320 - 321
1.4 MP CCD Cameras
Custom Cameras
Pages 312 - 313
Page 322
4 MP CCD Cameras
ThorCam Software
Pages 314 - 315
Pages 323 - 325
8 MP CCD Cameras
Camera Noise Tutorial
Pages 316 - 317
Pages 326 - 327
Fast CCD Cameras Pages 318 - 319
307
Scientific Cameras CCD Cameras Overview
Low-Noise Scientific-Grade Cameras: Overview
1.4 MP CCD Cameras
Features
4 MP CCD Cameras
n 4
8 MP CCD Cameras Fast CCD Cameras Compact CCD Cameras Custom Cameras
1500M-CL-TE 1.4 Megapixel CCD Camera
ThorCam Software Camera Noise Tutorial
Thorlabs’ Monochrome Scientific CCD Cameras are based on high quantum efficiency, lownoise CCD imagers, which make them ideal for multispectral imaging, fluorescence microscopy, and other high-performance imaging techniques. Both non-cooled and cooled versions are available.
Versions Available • 1.4 Megapixel (See Page 312) • 4 Megapixel (See Page 314) • 8 Megapixel (See Page 316) • 200 fps Fast Frame Rate (See Page 318) n Software-Selectable 20 MHz or 40 MHz Readout n 12-Bit (1.4 Megapixel Cameras) or 14-Bit Analog-to-Digital Converter Resolution n Low Read Noise at 20 MHz Readout • <10 e- (1.4, 4, and 8 Megapixel Cameras) • <15 e- (Fast Frame Rate Cameras) n Streaming, Triggered, and Gated Exposure Modes n ThorCam Software GUI n Third-Party Software Support Including LabVIEW, MATLAB, µManager / ImageJ, and Metamorph n All Necessary Computer Hardware, Software, and Cables Included n Supported by Full-Featured API/SDK n Optional Hermetically Sealed Fanless TE-Cooling (Vibration Free) n Robust Design with Small Form Factor
Our scientific cameras have three operating modes: streaming overlapped exposure, edge-triggered single-frame snapshot, and variable pulse width exposure. Each mode may be operated at either 20 MHz or 40 MHz and can support variable binning and region-of-interest (ROI) operation. Binning allows an application to achieve higher frame rates and signal to noise at lower spatial resolution. An auxiliary I/O connector enables easy integration into systems that require the camera to be triggered by external devices or that require external devices to be triggered by the camera. We offer auxiliary cables as an optional accessory.
Images Taken with Thorlabs’ Scientific-Grade Cameras
Image of Blood Vessels in the Eye for Ophthalmology
Merged Triple Emission Fluorescence Microscopy Image
Fluorescence Image of a Rat Neuron Acquired Using One of Our 1.4 Megapixel Cameras
308
More image samples can be found on Thorlabs’ website
Scientific Cameras CCD Cameras Overview
Low-Noise Scientific-Grade Cameras: Overview Higher Pixel Count/Larger FOV CAMERA TYPE
8 MEGAPIXEL
4 MEGAPIXEL
1.4 MEGAPIXEL
FAST FRAME RATE
3296 x 2472
2048 x 2048
1392 x 1040
640 x 480
17.1 fps
25.8 fps
23 fps
200.7 fps
Large FOV Slide Imaging Histopathology Inspection Multispectral Imaging Immunohistochemistry (IHC)
Fluorescence Microscopy Transmitted Light Microscopy Whole-Slide Microscopy Electron Microscopy (TEM/SEM) Inspection Material Sciences
Fluorescence Microscopy VIS/NIR Imaging Quantum Dots Multispectral Imaging Immunohistochemistry (IHC) Retinal Imaging Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH)
Ca++ Ion Imaging Particle Tracking Flow Cytometry SEM/EBSD UV Inspection
Active Pixels Max Frame Rate (Full Sensor)
Typical Applications
Higher Speed
Package Our cameras are offered in two package styles: a compact, non-cooled standard package and a hermetically sealed package with a two-stage TEC that cools the CCD in a moisture-purged environment to prevent condensation on optical surfaces. The fan-free design of our cooled cameras eliminates a source of image-blurring vibrations. 1.81" (46 mm)
Under imaging conditions that require short exposure times (less than 1 second), a non-cooled camera is generally sufficient. A cooled camera can be beneficial for applications with low light levels requiring long exposures (typically greater than 1 second). A tutorial with a more detailed discussion of noise sources can be found on pages 326 - 327.
3.25" (82.6 mm)
0.315" (8 mm)
1.63" (41.3 mm)
3.25" (82.6 mm)
C-Mount (1.000"-32) (Back Focus Adjustable) 4-40 Tap for 60 mm Cage System (4 Places)
3.90" (99.1 mm)
2.65" (67.2 mm) 1.17" (29.7 mm)
8 MP CCD Cameras Fast CCD Cameras Compact CCD Cameras Custom Cameras ThorCam Software Camera Noise Tutorial
TDI Microscope System ◆ High-Speed Scanning of Whole Slides: Image 10 mm x 10 mm at 15X in 35 Seconds ◆ Exposures from 5 ms to 200 ms Suitable for Brightfield and Fluorescence Microscopy ◆ Compatible with All Thorlabs’ Scientific CCD Cameras
2.36" (60 mm)
Non-Cooled Camera
4 MP CCD Cameras
Have you seen our...
2.36" (60 mm)
1/4"-20 Tapped Hole (4 Places)
1.4 MP CCD Cameras
2.36" (60 mm)
1.95" (49.5 mm)
3.90" (99.1 mm) 2.36" (60 mm)
C-Mount (1.000"-32) (Back Focus Adjustable)
1/4"-20 Tapped Hole (4 Places)
Hermetically Sealed Cooled Camera
4-40 Tap for 60 mm Cage System (4 Places)
See Pages 116 - 123 309
Scientific Cameras CCD Cameras Overview
Low-Noise Scientific-Grade Cameras: Overview
1.4 MP CCD Cameras
Mounting
4 MP CCD Cameras 8 MP CCD Cameras Fast CCD Cameras Compact CCD Cameras Custom Cameras ThorCam Software
All of our scientific-grade cameras feature standard C-Mount (1.000"-32) threading. Thorlabs provides a full line of thread-to-thread adapters for compatibility with other thread standards, including the SM1 (1.035"-40) threading used on our Ø1" Lens Tubes. The front face also has 4-40 tapped holes for compatibility with our 60 mm Cage System.
Four 1/4"-20 tapped holes, one on each side of the housing, are compatible with our Ø1" posts. These flexible mounting options make Thorlabs’ scientific cameras the ideal choice for integrating into a variety of commercial microscopes, as well as custom "homebuilt" imaging systems.
Two 1500M-GE Scientific Cameras shown mounted on a Cerna Microscope (see pages 36 - 49). The dual port allows both cameras to be used simultaneously, with one camera for fluorescence imaging and the second camera for IR-DIC.
Camera Noise Tutorial
IR Blocking Filter Each scientific camera (except the UV versions) comes with an IR blocking filter. It can be removed from the camera by following the instructions provided in the manual. Alternatively, a Ø25 mm filter of your choice can be inserted in place of the IR-blocking filter to optimize the spectral response for your application. IR Blocking Filter Transmission
100
Transmission (%)
80 60
IR Filter in Retaining Ring
40
C-Mount
20 0 400
500
600
700
800
Wavelength (nm) 310
900
1000
1100
The IR filter is mounted in the camera’s C-mount. It can be removed and replaced by another Ø25 mm filter of your choice.
Camera Cap Doubles as a Filter Removal Tool
Scientific Cameras
Low-Noise Scientific-Grade Cameras: Overview
CCD Cameras Overview
Computer Interface
1.4 MP CCD Cameras
Thorlabs’ scientific cameras have either a Gigabit Ethernet (GigE) or a Camera Link interface. GigE is ideal for situations where the camera must be far from the PC or there are multiple cameras that need to be controlled by the same PC. Each camera is provided with either a GigE or Camera Link frame grabber card and cables, a power supply, and software.
4 MP CCD Cameras 8 MP CCD Cameras Fast CCD Cameras Compact CCD Cameras Custom Cameras
1500M-GE-TE 1500M-CL
Gig E Interface
Camera Link Interface
ThorCam Software Camera Noise Tutorial
Software: ThorCamTM ThorCam is a powerful image acquisition software package that is designed for use with our scientific cameras on 32- and 64-bit Windows® 7 systems. This easy-to-use graphical interface communicates with the camera to provide system control, image acquisition, and play back. Single-image capture and image sequences are supported.
Software: 3rd Party Applications Application programming interfaces (APIs) and a software development kit (SDK) are also included for the development of custom applications by OEMs and developers. Also included is support for third-party software packages such as LabVIEW, MATLAB, and µManager / ImageJ. Both 32- and 64-bit versions of LabVIEW and MATLAB are supported.
Screenshot Showing the ThorCam Software GUI
311
Scientific Cameras CCD Cameras Overview
Scientific Cameras: 1.4 Megapixel CCD
1.4 MP CCD Cameras
Applications
4 MP CCD Cameras
n Fluorescence
Microscopy n Transmitted Light Microscopy n Whole-Slide Imaging n NIR Imaging
8 MP CCD Cameras Fast CCD Cameras Compact CCD Cameras
Features n 1392 x 1040 Monochrome CCD Sensor with 6.45 µm Square Pixels (Sony ICX285AL) n Up to 23 Frames per Second for Full Sensor n 60% Quantum Efficiency at 500 nm n Low Noise of <10 e- at 20 MHz
Custom Cameras ThorCam Software Camera Noise Tutorial
1500M-CL-TE 1.4 Megapixel CCD Camera with Camera Link Interface
Typical Dark Current The table below shows the nominal dark current values at several temperatures for the Sony ICX285AL CCD sensor. See pages 326 - 327 for an explanation of how dark current affects noise.
312
TEMPERATURE
DARK CURRENT (ID)
-20 ˚C
0.1 e-/(s*pixel)
0 ˚C
1 e-/(s*pixel)
25 ˚C
5 e-/s(*pixel)
Example Frame Rates at 1 ms Exposure Time CCD SIZE AND BINNINGa
20 MHZ
40 MHZ
Full Sensor (1392 x 1040)
12 fps
23 fps
Full Sensor, Bin by 2 (696 x 520)
23 fps
41 fps
Full Sensor, Bin by 10 (139 x 104)
77 fps
112 fps
aCamera
Frame Rate is Impacted by the Vertical Hardware Binning Parameter
Quantum Efficiency For NIR imaging applications, the quantum efficiency (QE) response curve shown below indicates a peak of 60% at 500 nm, making our 1.4 megapixel CCD camera a good choice for imaging most of the popular fluorophores used in fluorescence microscopy for the life sciences. The NIR Enhanced (Boost) Mode can be selected via the software. The IR blocking filter should also be removed for applications requiring maximum NIR sensitivity.
Quantum Efficiency (%)
Thorlabs’ 1.4 Megapixel Scientific CCD cameras are ideal for fluorescence imaging, transmitted light microscopy, confocal microscopy, and NIR applications. The cameras are available with either a Gigabit Ethernet or Camera Link interface. Hermetically sealed, cooled versions are offered for low light applications, where long exposures may be required. For help deciding between a cooled and a non-cooled camera, see pages 326 - 327. A complete overview of the features common to all of our scientific-grade CCD cameras can be found in the camera overview on pages 308 - 311. The information below describes the performance of our 1.4 megapixel cameras. We also offer models with 4 megapixel (see pages 314 - 315), 8 megapixel (see pages 316 - 317), or 200 frames per second (see pages 318 - 319) imagers.
65 60 55 50 45 40 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0
1.4 Megapixel Cameras Standard Mode NIR Enhanced (Boost) Mode
250
350
450
550
650
750
Wavelength (nm)
850
950
1050
Scientific Cameras CCD Cameras Overview
Scientific Cameras: 1.4 Megapixel CCD
1.4 MP CCD Cameras
GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS Max Frame Rate (Full Sensor)
23 fps (with 40 MHz Readout)
Number of Taps Sensor Type
Sony ICX285AL Monochrome CCD (Grade O)
Number of Active Pixels
6.45 µm x 6.45 µm
Optical Format
60% at 500 nm Compact CCD Cameras
0 to 1000 s in 1 ms Incrementsa
Exposure Time CCD Pixel Clock Speed
20 MHz or 40 MHz
Resolution
Custom Cameras
12 Bits
ADCb Gain
0 to 1023 Steps (0.036 dB/Step)
ThorCam Software
0 to 1023 Steps (0.25 ADU/Step)c
Optical Black Clamp Vertical Hardware Binningd
Continuous Integer Values from 1 to 24
Binningd
Camera Noise Tutorial
Continuous Integer Values from 1 to 24
Region of Interest Read
Fast CCD Cameras
2/3" Format (11 mm Diagonal)
Peak Quantum Efficiency
Horizontal Software
8 MP CCD Cameras
1392 x 1040 (Horizontal x Vertical)
Pixel Size
ADCb
4 MP CCD Cameras
Single
1 x 1 Pixel to 1392 x 1040 Pixels, Rectangular
Noisee
Thorlabs Scientific Camera Integrated into a Home-Built Microscope Using Our SM1 Lens Tubes and 30 mm Cage Components
<10 e- at 20 MHz
Lens Mount
C-Mount (1.000"-32)
a The
actual exposure time is a calculated value dependent on the operating mode and is the closest achievable value to the desired exposure time. b Analog-to-Digital Converter c ADU = Analog to Digital Unit d Camera Frame Rate is Impacted by the Vertical Hardware Binning Parameter e If your application is read-noise limited, we recommend using the lower CCD pixel clock speed of 20 MHz. For more information about read noise, and for examples of how to estimate the limiting factor of total camera noise, please see pages 326 – 327.
ITEM # DIGITAL OUTPUT 1500M-GE 1500M-CL 12 Bits 1500M-GE-TE
HOST PC INTERFACE PACKAGE COOLING Gigabit Ethernet Standard None Camera Link Gigabit Ethernet Hermetically Sealed, -20 °C at Ambient Cooled Room Temperature Camera Link
1500M-CL-TE
$
PRICE 5,100.00
$
7,000.00
$
8,100.00
$ 10,000.00
Optional Accessories These optional accessories are designed for the auxiliary port of our 1.4 megapixel scientific cameras. Consider purchasing these items when it is necessary to externally trigger the camera or to monitor camera performance with an oscilloscope.
Auxiliary I/O Cable (1500-CAB1)
1500-CAB1
The 1500-CAB1 is a 10' (3 m) long cable that mates with the auxiliary connector on our 1.4 megapixel CCD cameras featured above and provides the ability to externally trigger the camera as well as to monitor status output signals. Both ends of the cable feature a male 6-pin Mini Din connector.
Interconnect Break-Out Board (TSI-IOBOB) The TSI-IOBOB is designed to "break out" the 6-pin Mini Din auxiliary connector found on our scientific CCD cameras into five SMA connectors. The SMA connectors can then be connected using SMA cables to other devices to provide a trigger input to the camera or to monitor camera performance. ITEM # 1500-CAB1
$
PRICE 30.00
TSI-IOBOB
$
45.00
TSI-IOBOB
DESCRIPTION I/O Cable with Ferrite Core for 1.4 Megapixel Scientific CCD Cameras I/O Break-Out Board for Scientific CCD Cameras
313
Scientific Cameras CCD Cameras Overview
Scientific Cameras: 4 Megapixel CCD
1.4 MP CCD Cameras
Applications n Fluorescence
Microscopy n Transmitted Light Microscopy
4 MP CCD Cameras 8 MP CCD Cameras
Features
Fast CCD Cameras
n 4/3"
Compact CCD Cameras Custom Cameras ThorCam Software Camera Noise Tutorial
4070M-CL 4 Megapixel CCD Camera with Camera Link Interface
Format, 2048 x 2048 Monochrome CCD Sensor with 7.4 µm Square Pixels (Kodak/Truesense KAI-04070M CCD) n Up to 25.8 Frames per Second for Full Sensor n 50% Quantum Efficiency at 500 nm n Low Noise of <10 e- at 20 MHz n Software Selectable Single-, Dual-, or Quad-Tap Readout at 20 or 40 MHz
Example Frame Rates at 1 ms Exposure Time SINGLE TAP CCD SIZE AND BINNINGa
QUAD TAPb
DUAL TAP
20 MHZ
40 MHZ
20 MHZ
40 MHz
20 MHZ
40 MHZ
4.1 fps
7.7 fps
7.4 fps
13 fps
14.8 fps
25.8 fps
Full Sensor, Bin by 2 (1024 x 1024)
7.5 fps
13.1 fps
12.8 fps
20.5 fps
25.3 fps
40.6 fps
Full Sensor, Bin by 10 (204 x 204)
21.6 fps
30.5 fps
30.0 fps
38.1 fps
58.8 fps
75.1 fps
Full Sensor (2048 x 2048)
aCamera Frame Rate is Impacted by bFor Camera Link Versions Only
the Vertical Hardware Binning Parameter
Quantum Efficiency (%)
Thorlabs’ 4 Megapixel Scientific CCD Cameras are ideal for fluorescence imaging and transmitted light microscopy. The cameras are available with either a Gigabit Ethernet or Camera Link interface. Hermetically sealed, cooled versions are offered for low light applications, where long exposures may be required. For help deciding between a cooled and a non-cooled camera, see pages 326 - 327. A complete overview of the features common to all of our scientific-grade CCD cameras can be found in the camera overview on pages 308 - 311. The information below describes the performance of our 4 megapixel cameras. We also offer models with 1.4 megapixel (see pages 312- 313), 8 megapixel (see pages 316 - 317), or 200 frames per second (see pages 318 - 319) imagers. 65 60 55 50 45 40 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0 350
4 Megapixel Cameras
450
550
650
750
850
Wavelength (nm) 314
950
1050
1150
Scientific CCD Camera Mounted on a UserConfigured Cerna Microscope with Custom Underside Illumination
Scientific Cameras
Scientific Cameras: 4 Megapixel CCD CAMERA INTERFACE
GIGABIT ETHERNET
CAMERA LINK
13 fps (at 40 MHz Dual-Tap Readout)
25.8 fps (at 40 MHz Quad-Tap Readout)
Single, Dual
Single, Dual, Quad
Max Frame Rate (Full Sensor) Number of Taps (Software Selectable) Sensor Type
Kodak / Truesense KAI-04070M
Number of Active Pixels
7.4 µm x 7.4 µm
Optical Format
52% at 500 nm 0 to 1000 s in 1 ms Incrementsa
Exposure Time CCD Pixel Clock Speed
14 Bits (Single Tap) / 12 Bits (Dual Tap)
ADCb Gain
14 Bits
Custom Cameras
0 to 1023 Steps (0.036 dB/Step) 0 to 1023 Steps (0.25 ADU/Step)c
Optical Black Clamp Binningd
ThorCam Software
Continuous Integer Values from 1 to 10
Horizontal Software Binningd
Continuous Integer Values from 1 to 10
Region of Interest
Camera Noise Tutorial
1 x 1 Pixel to 2048 x 2048 Pixels, Rectangular
Read Noisee
<10 e- at 20 MHz
Lens Mount
C-Mount (1.000"-32)
4 MP CCD Cameras
Compact CCD Cameras
20 MHz or 40 MHz
ADCb Resolution
1.4 MP CCD Cameras
Fast CCD Cameras
4/3" Format (21.4 mm Diagonal)
Peak Quantum Efficiency
CCD Cameras Overview
8 MP CCD Cameras
2048 x 2048 (Horizontal x Vertical)
Pixel Size
Vertical Hardware
Scientific CCD Camera Mounted on a Nikon Eclipse Ti Microscope Integrated with Thorlabs’ Confocal System
a The
actual exposure time is a calculated value dependent on the operating mode and is the closest achievable value to the desired exposure time. b Analog-to-Digital Converter c ADU = Analog to Digital Unit d Camera Frame Rate is Impacted by the Vertical Hardware Binning Parameter e If your application is read-noise limited, we recommend using the lower CCD pixel clock speed of 20 MHz. For more information about read noise, and for examples of how to estimate the limiting factor of total camera noise, please see pages 326 – 327.
ITEM # 4070M-GE
DIGITAL OUTPUT 14 Bit (Single Tap)/12 Bit (Dual Tap) 14 Bit
PACKAGE COOLING 14 Bits Standard None Camera Link
4070M-GE-TE
14 Bit (Single Tap)/12 Bit (Dual Tap)
Gigabit Ethernet Hermetically Sealed, -10 °C at Ambient
4070M-CL-TE*
14 Bit
4070M-CL*
HOST PC INTERFACE Gigabit Ethernet
Cooled Room Temperature Camera Link
$
PRICE 6,000.00
$
7,550.00
$
9,000.00
$ 10,550.00
*These products are in the final stages of development. Specifications are subject to change.
Optional Accessories These optional accessories are designed for the auxiliary port of our 4 megapixel scientific cameras. Consider purchasing these items when it is necessary to externally trigger the camera or to monitor camera performance with an oscilloscope.
Auxiliary I/O Cable (8050-CAB1) The 8050-CAB1 is a 10' (3 m) long cable that mates with the auxiliary connector on our 4 megapixel, 8 megapixel, or fast frame rate CCD cameras and provides the ability to externally trigger the camera as well 8050-CAB1 as to monitor status output signals. One end of the cable features a male 12-pin connector for connecting to the camera, while the other end has a male 6-pin Mini Din connector for connecting to external devices. This cable is intended for use with our TSI-IOBOB interconnect break-out board described below.
Interconnect Break-Out Board (TSI-IOBOB) The TSI-IOBOB is designed to "break out" the 12-pin Hirose auxiliary connector found on our 4 megapixel scientific CCD cameras into five SMA connectors. The SMA connectors can then be connected using SMA cables to other devices to provide a trigger input to the camera or to monitor camera performance. ITEM # 8050-CAB1
$
PRICE 70.00
TSI-IOBOB
$
45.00
TSI-IOBOB
DESCRIPTION I/O Cable for 4 Megapixel, 8 Megapixel, and Fast Frame Rate Scientific CCD Cameras I/O Break-Out Board for Scientific CCD Cameras
315
Scientific Cameras CCD Cameras Overview
Scientific Cameras: 8 Megapixel CCD
1.4 MP CCD Cameras
Applications n Fluorescence
8 MP CCD Cameras
Microscopy n Transmitted Light Microscopy n Whole-Slide Microscopy
Fast CCD Cameras
Features
4 MP CCD Cameras
n 4/3"
Compact CCD Cameras Custom Cameras ThorCam Software
8050M-CL
Camera Noise Tutorial
8 Megapixel CCD Camera with Camera Link Interface
Format, 3296 x 2472 Monochrome CCD Sensor with 5.5 µm Square Pixels (Kodak / Truesense KAI-08050M) n Software Selectable Single- or Dual-Tap Readout at 20 or 40 MHz (Quad-Tap Also Available on Camera Link Versions) n Up to 17.1 Frames per Second for Full Sensor n 50% Quantum Efficiency at 500 nm n Low Noise of <10 e- at 20 MHz
Quantum Efficiency (%)
Thorlabs’ 8 Megapixel Scientific CCD Cameras are ideal for fluorescence imaging, transmitted light microscopy, and whole-slide-imaging applications. The Example Frame Rates at 1 ms Exposure Time SINGLE TAP DUAL TAP QUAD TAPb cameras are available with either a Gigabit CCD SIZE AND BINNINGa 20 MHZ 40 MHZ 20 MHZ 40 MHZ 20 MHZ 40 MHZ Ethernet or Camera Link interface. Full Sensor (3296 x 2472) 2.3 fps 4.5 fps 4.4 fps 8.5 fps 8.8 fps 17.1 fps Hermetically sealed, cooled versions are Full Sensor, Bin by 2 (1648 x 1236) 4.4 fps 8.5 fps 8.3 fps 15.7 fps 16.6 fps 31.2 fps offered for low light applications, where Full Sensor, Bin by 10 (329 x 247) 17.0 fps 29.9 fps 29.0 fps 47.1 fps 56.8 fps 92.3 fps long exposures may be required. For help aCamera Frame Rate is Impacted by the Vertical Hardware Binning Parameter bFor Camera Link Versions Only deciding between a cooled and a noncooled camera, see pages 326 - 327. A complete overview of the features common to all of our scientific-grade CCD cameras can be found in the A Scientific CCD Camera Shown Mounted on a Bergamo II Series camera overview on pages 308 - 311. Microscope The information below describes the performance of our 8 megapixel cameras. We also offer models with 1.4 megapixel (see pages 312 - 313), 4 megapixel (see pages 314 - 315), or 200 frames per second (see pages 318 - 319) imagers. 65 60 55 50 45 40 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0
8 Megapixel Cameras
350 450 550 650 750 850 950 1050 1150
Wavelength (nm) 316
Scientific Cameras CCD Cameras Overview
Scientific Cameras: 8 Megapixel CCD CAMERA INTERFACE Max Frame Rate (Full Sensor)
GIGABIT ETHERNET
CAMERA LINK
8.5 fps (at 40 MHz Dual-Tap Readout)
17.1 fps (at 40 MHz Quad-Tap Readout)
Single, Dual
Single, Dual, Quad
Number of Taps (Software Selectable) Sensor Type
3296 x 2472 (Horizontal x Vertical)
Pixel Size
4/3" Format (22 mm Diagonal)
Peak Quantum Efficiency
Fast CCD Cameras
50% at 500 nm 0 to 1000 s in 1 ms Incrementsa
Exposure Time CCD Pixel Clock Speed
Compact CCD Cameras
20 MHz or 40 MHz
Resolution
14 Bits (Single Tap) / 12 Bits (Dual Tap)
ADCb Gain
14 Bits
0 to 1023 Steps (0.036 dB/Step)
Custom Cameras
0 to 1023 Steps (0.25 ADU/Step)c
Optical Black Clamp Vertical Hardware Binningd
Continuous Integer Values from 1 to 10
Horizontal Software Binningd
Continuous Integer Values from 1 to 10
Region of Interest
ThorCam Software
1 x 1 Pixel to 3296 x 2472 Pixels, Rectangular
Read Noisee
Camera Noise Tutorial
< 10 e- at 20 MHz
Lens Mount
C-Mount (1.000"-32)
aThe
actual exposure time is a calculated value dependent on the operating mode and is the closest achievable value to the desired exposure time. bAnalog-to-Digital Converter cADU = Analog to Digital Unit
ITEM # 8050M-GE
8 MP CCD Cameras
5.5 µm x 5.5 µm
Optical Format
ADCb
4 MP CCD Cameras
Kodak / Truesense KAI-08050M
Number of Active Pixels
DIGITAL OUTPUT 14 Bit (Single Tap)/12 Bit (Dual Tap)
8050M-CL*
14 Bit
8050M-GE-TE
14 Bit (Single Tap)/12 Bit (Dual Tap)
8050M-CL-TE*
14 Bit
1.4 MP CCD Cameras
dCamera Frame Rate is Impacted by the Vertical Hardware Binning Parameter eIf your application is read-noise limited, we recommend using the lower CCD
pixel clock speed of 20 MHz. For more information about read noise, and for examples of how to estimate the limiting factor of total camera noise, please see pages 326 - 327.
HOST PC INTERFACE Gigabit Ethernet
PACKAGE COOLING 14 Bits None Standard Camera Link -10 °C at Ambient Gigabit Ethernet Hermetically Sealed, Room Temperature Cooled Camera Link
$
PRICE 5,950.00
$
7,850.00
$
9,980.00
$ 10,850.00
*These products are in the final stages of development. Specifications are subject to change.
Optional Accessories These optional accessories are designed for the auxiliary port of our 8 megapixel scientific cameras. Consider purchasing these items when it is necessary to externally trigger the camera or to monitor camera performance with an oscilloscope.
Auxiliary I/O Cable (8050-CAB1) The 8050-CAB1 is a 10' (3 m) long cable that mates with the auxiliary connector on our 4 megapixel, 8 megapixel, or fast frame rate CCD cameras and provides the ability to externally trigger 8050-CAB1 the camera as well as to monitor status output signals. One end of the cable features a male 12-pin connector for connecting to the camera, while the other end has a male 6-pin Mini Din connector for connecting to external devices. This cable is intended for use with our TSI-IOBOB interconnect break-out board described below.
Interconnect Break-Out Board (TSI-IOBOB)
TSI-IOBOB ITEM # 8050-CAB1
$
PRICE 70.00
TSI-IOBOB
$
45.00
The TSI-IOBOB is designed to "break out" the 12-pin Hirose auxiliary connector found on our 8 megapixel scientific CCD cameras into five SMA connectors. The SMA connectors can then be connected using SMA cables to other devices to provide a trigger input to the camera or to monitor camera performance. DESCRIPTION I/O Cable for 4 Megapixel, 8 Megapixel, and Fast Frame Rate Scientific CCD Cameras I/O Break-Out Board for Scientific CCD Cameras
317
Scientific Cameras
Scientific Cameras: Fast Frame Rate CCD
1.4 MP CCD Cameras
Applications n Fluorescence
Microscopy n Flow Cytometry n Ca2+ Imaging n UV Imaging
4 MP CCD Cameras 8 MP CCD Cameras Fast CCD Cameras
Features
Compact CCD Cameras
n 1 /3"
ThorCam Software
340M-GE
Camera Noise Tutorial
VGA Cameras with Gigabit Ethernet Interface
Example Frame Rates at 1 ms Exposure Time SINGLE TAP CCD SIZE AND BINNINGa
DUAL TAP
20 MHZ 40 MHZ 20 MHZ 40 MHZ
Full Sensor (640 x 480)
57.0 fps
112.3 fps 103.3 fps
200.7 fps
Full Sensor, Bin by 2 (320 x 240)
110.1 fps 213.5 fps 196.8 fps
372.4 fps
Full Sensor, Bin by 10 (64 x 48)
429.0 fps 764.7 fps 712.9 fps 1185.4 fps
aCamera
Frame Rate is Impacted by the Vertical Hardware Binning Parameter
Thorlabs’ Fast Frame Rate Scientific CCD Cameras offer VGA resolution and are ideal for use in Ca2+ imaging, particle tracking, and flow cytometry applications. Versions of these cameras are also available with imagers optimized for UV wavelengths, making them ideal tools for UV imaging. The cameras can be purchased with either a Gigabit Ethernet or Camera Link interface. A complete overview of the features common to all of our scientific-grade CCD cameras can be found in the camera overview on pages 308 - 311. The information below describes the performance of our fast frame rate cameras. We also offer models with 1.4 megapixel (see pages 312 - 313), 4 megapixel (see pages 314 - 315), or 8 megapixel (see pages 316 - 317) imagers.
Format, 640 x 480 (VGA) Monochrome CCD Sensor with 7.4 µm Square Pixels (Kodak / Truesense KAI-0340 Monochrome CCD) n CCD Chips Optimized for Visible or UV Wavelengths n Up to 200.7 Frames per Second for Full Sensor n Peak Quantum Efficiency • 55% @ 500 nm for Standard Version • 10% @ 485 nm for UV Enhanced Version n Low Noise of <15 e- at 20 MHz n Software Selectable Single- or Dual-Tap Readout at 20 or 40 MHz n UV Version Also Available
Quantum Efficiency (%)
CCD Cameras Overview
65 60 55 50 45 40 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0
Standard Fast-Frame-Rate Cameras
350
450
550
650
750
850
950
1050
1150
Wavelength (nm) UV Fast-Frame-Rate Cameras
Back Side of a CCD Camera with Camera Link Interface. The two output taps can be seen near the top of the housing.
318
Quantum Efficiency (%)
11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 250
350
450
550
650
Wavelength (nm)
750
850
950
Scientific Cameras
Scientific Cameras: Fast Frame Rate CCD
CCD Cameras Overview
GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS
1.4 MP CCD Cameras
Max Frame Rate (Full Sensor)
200.7 fps (at 40 MHz Dual-Tap Readout)
Number of Taps (Software Selectable)
4 MP CCD Cameras
Single, Dual
Sensor Type
Kodak / Truesense KAI-0340
Number of Active Pixels
8 MP CCD Cameras
640 x 480 (Horizontal x Vertical)
Pixel Size
7.4 µm x 7.4 µm
Optical Format
Fast CCD Cameras
1/3" Format (5.92 mm Diagonal)
Peak Quantum Efficiency
Standard: 55% at 500 nm; UV Enhanced: 10% at 485 nm Compact CCD Cameras
0 to 1000 s in 1 ms Incrementsa
Exposure Time CCD Pixel Clock Speed
20 MHz or 40 MHz
ADCb Resolution
ThorCam Software
Gigabit Ethernet: 14 Bits (Single Tap) / 12 Bits (Dual Tap); Camera Link: 14 Bits
ADCb Gain
0 to 1023 Steps (0.036 dB/Step)
Camera Noise Tutorial
0 to 1023 Steps (0.25 ADU/Step)c
Optical Black Clamp Vertical Hardware Binningd
Continuous Integer Values from 1 to 24
Horizontal Software Binningd
Continuous Integer Values from 1 to 24
Region of Interest
1 x 1 Pixel to 640 x 480 Pixels, Rectangular
Read Noisee
<15 e- at 20 MHz
Lens Mount
C-Mount (1.000"-32)
a
d Camera Frame Rate is Impacted by the Vertical Hardware Binning Parameter e If your application is read-noise limited, we recommend using the lower CCD
Exposure time is a calculated value dependent on the operating mode and is the closest achievable value to the desired exposure time. b Analog-to-Digital Converter c ADU = Analog to Digital
pixel clock speed of 20 MHz. For more information about read noise, and for examples of how to estimate the limiting factor of total camera noise, please see pages 326 - 327.
ITEM # SENSOR 340M-GE Standard 340M-CL*
DIGITAL OUTPUT 14 Bit (Single Tap)/12 Bit (Dual Tap)
HOST PC INTERFACE PACKAGE COOLING Gigabit Ethernet
PRICE $ 4,400.00
14 Bit
340UV-GE UV Enhanced Enhanced UV 340UV-CL*
14 Bit (Single Tap)/12 Bit (Dual Tap)
Camera Link Standard None Gigabit Ethernet
$ 4,600.00
14 Bit
Camera Link
$ 6,300.00 $ 6,500.00
*These products are in the final stages of development. Specifications are subject to change.
Optional Accessories These optional accessories are designed for the auxiliary port of our fast frame rate scientific cameras. Consider purchasing these items when it is necessary to externally trigger the camera or to monitor camera performance with an oscilloscope.
Auxiliary I/O Cable (8050-CAB1) The 8050-CAB1 is a 10' (3 m) long cable that mates with the auxiliary connector on our 4 megapixel, 8 megapixel, or fast frame rate CCD cameras and provides the ability to externally trigger the 8050-CAB1 camera as well as to monitor status output signals. One end of the cable features a male 12-pin connector for connecting to the camera, while the other end has a male 6-pin Mini Din connector for connecting to external devices. This cable is ideal for use with our TSI-IOBOB interconnect break-out board described below.
Interconnect Break-Out Board (TSI-IOBOB)
TSI-IOBOB ITEM # 8050-CAB1
$
PRICE 70.00
TSI-IOBOB
$
45.00
The TSI-IOBOB is designed to "break out" the 12-pin Mini Din auxiliary connector found on our fast-frame-rate scientific CCD cameras into five SMA connectors. The SMA connectors can then be connected using SMA cables to other devices to provide a trigger input to the camera or to monitor camera performance. DESCRIPTION I/O Cable for 4 Megapixel, 8 Megapixel, and Fast Frame Rate Scientific CCD Cameras I/O Break-Out Board for Scientific CCD Cameras
319
Scientific Cameras CCD Cameras Overview
High Resolution CCD Camera with External Trigger Thorlabs offers this ultra compact, lightweight monochrome CCD camera as a costeffective solution for microscopy applications requiring more than one camera. For example, multiple cameras can be integrated into a Cerna microscope (see pages 36 - 49) that is configured with two imaging ports, where one camera is used for fluorescence imaging while a second is used for IR-DIC.
1.4 MP CCD Cameras 4 MP CCD Cameras 8 MP CCD Cameras
The DCU224M is equipped with a 1/2" format CCD sensor with SXGA resolution (1280 x 1024 pixels) and provides a full frame rate of 15 fps. Higher frame rates can be achieved by using the Region of Interest (ROI) or binning functions; the former increases the frame rate by only reading a selected area of the sensor, whereas the latter increases the frame rate by combining pixels before transferring them to the PC.
Fast CCD Cameras Compact CCD Cameras Custom Cameras ThorCam Software
This camera can be controlled via the same ThorCam software as our lownoise, scientific-grade CCD cameras presented on pages 312 - 319. It features a USB 2.0 interface that can be used to connect the camera to a PC.
Camera Noise Tutorial
DCU224M
The C-Mount threads (1.000"-32) on the front of the housing can be easily connected to components with Thorlabs’ standard SM1 thread (1.035"-40) via one of the two included SM1 adapters. In addition, a mounting adapter with an 8-32 and an M4 tap is included for post mounting.
SPECIFICATIONS
Features
Pixel Resolution
n 1280
x 1024 Pixel Resolution n 15 fps Full Frame Rate n Removable Filter Included n Internal C-Mount Threads n Global Shutter n Universal Trigger Input via a 9-Pin, Micro D-Sub Connector
1280 x 1024
Optical Sensor Class
1/2", Monochrome
Sensor Model (Sony)
ICX205AL
Pixel Size
4.65 µm x 4.65 µm
Exposure Mode
Electronic Global Shutter
Readout Mode
Progressive Scan
Frame Rate (Free Run Mode)
15 fps
Binning
Vertical
ROI (Partial Scan)
Horizontal and Vertical 5 – 30 MHza
Pixel Clock Frequency Range
Monochromatic Pixel Sensitivity vs. Wavelength
66 µsb – 1360 msc
Exposure Time (Free Run) Gain
1
13.66X (Master)
Relative Sensitivity
Relative Sensitivity
Hardware Trigger
Asynchronous
Objective Connector
C-Mount (SM1 Adapters Included)
Window (Removable)
Glass Filter
Interface
Power Consumption
1.1 W – 2.1 W via USB
Operating Temperature
0 to 50 °C (32 to 122 °F)
Compliance
400
500
600
700
Wavelength (nm)
800
900
Dimensions (W x H x D) Weight aThe maximum possible pixel clock frequency bRequires Maximum Pixel Clock Frequency cRequires Minimum Pixel Clock Frequency
ITEM # PRICE DCU224M $ 2,184.00
320
USB 2.0
CE, FCC, Class A 32 mm x 40.35 mm x 45.5 mm (1.26" x 1.59" x 1.79") 96 g (0.21 lbs) depends on the PC hardware used.
DESCRIPTION 1280 x 1024 Pixel, 15 fps, 1/2" Sensor, Black and White CCD Camera
Scientific Cameras
Trigger Cables for USB 2.0 Cameras
CCD Cameras Overview
The CAB-DCU-T1 and CAB-DCU-T2 USB Trigger Cables are designed for use with our DCU224M USB CCD Camera featured on the previous page. Both cables provide an additional trigger input and USB connection when attached to the camera via the Micro D-Sub. In addition, the CAB-DCU-T1 provides an additional trigger output.
1.4 MP CCD Cameras 4 MP CCD Cameras
CAB-DCU-T2
An input trigger may be used to initiate the exposure of the camera. The output trigger can be used to start external events (e.g., a strobe light). The trigger configuration (i.e., the delay of the input trigger and timing of the output trigger) can be set using the provided software CAB-DCU-T1 or LabVIEW drivers. Both cables can also be used with our Shack-Hartmann Wavefront Sensors (WFS150/WFS300 Series, see pages 476 - 479) although, in this case, only the trigger in Micro D-Sub Pinout function will be available. ITEM # Device Side Connector
Micro D-Sub, 90° Angled
PC Side Connector USB Standard
Compact CCD Camera
1
6
CAB-DCU-T1
CAB-DCU-T2 Not Connected
Micro D-Sub, Straight
2
Shield
Hi-Speed USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/s)
4
USB +5 V
X
X
5
X
-
6
Camera Noise Tutorial
Trigger Input +
3
USB GND Flash Strobe Output +
Not Connected
24AWG/2C and 28AWG/1PR
7
Trigger Input -
Double-Shielded 80 °C 30 V
8
USB D+
3m
9
USB D-
Length
9
Flash Strobe Output -
Flash and Digital Out (Bare Wire)
Custom Cameras ThorCam Software
1
USB 2.0 A Male
Shielding
5
PIN
Trigger In (Bare Wire) Wire Gauge USB
Fast CCD Camera
CAB-DCU-T2
CAB-DCU-T1
8 MP CCD Cameras
ITEM # PRICE CAB-DCU-T1 $ 133.00
DESCRIPTION USB and Trigger Cable (In/Out) for Cameras, 3 m
CAB-DCU-T2 $ 78.00
1USB and Trigger Cable (In Only) for Cameras, 3 m
Have you seen our...
Complete Line of Cameras and Accessories 6.5X Zoom Lens on a 1500M-CL Scientific-Grade Camera
DCC3240M
DCU224C
High-Resolution, Monochrome CMOS Camera with USB 3.0 Interface
High-Resolution, Color CCD Camera with USB 2.0 Interface
MVL25M2 25 mm Focal Length Lens for 2/3" Format Cameras
In addition to our Scientific-Grade CCD Cameras featured on pages 312 - 319, Thorlabs also offers a wide range of CCD and CMOS cameras that are excellent for a variety of applications including microscopy, medical imaging, and quality control. Visit our website to see our complete selection.
Visit www.thorlabs.com to Learn More 321
Scientific Cameras CCD Cameras Overview 1.4 MP CCD Cameras 4 MP CCD Cameras 8 MP CCD Cameras Fast CCD Cameras Compact CCD Cameras Custom Cameras ThorCam Software Camera Noise Tutorial
Custom Cameras In addition to our large selection of standard scientific cameras, we have the capability of building custom cameras designed specifically for scientific applications. Options include high-performance cameras, board-level cameras, custom camera housings, and software. If you have special requirements, a custom application, or general questions about our capabilities, please contact us at ScientificImaging@thorlabs.com. We can help you evaluate your application and budgetary requirements to explore custom camera options that might satisfy your needs. Customizing a scientific camera can be done from scratch or by using one of our existing standard cameras (see pages 312 - 321) as a starting point. Our engineering team simplifies this process by using the two-step process below. Small changes made to our existing stock can be done quickly and easily. When designing a custom camera from scratch, we will help walk you through everything detailed below.
Step 1: Analyze Your Custom Requirements n Considerations
• Sensitivity • Wavelength • Resolution • Speed n System Requirements • Operating Environment • Space Constraints • Interfaces • Software n Application Space • Compliance Issues • Future Developments • Logistics
Quantum Efficiency (%)
70 60 50 40 30 20 10 0 200 300
400 500 600 700 800 900 1000 1100 Wavelength (nm)
Popular Fluorophore Emission Wavelengths Overlaid with the Quantum Efficiency Curves for our 1.4 Megapixel Cameras
322
Board-Level Photograph of the Sensor and Electronics in One of Our Scientific Cameras
Step 2: Configure a Solution n Imager
Options • UV, Visible, or NIR Spectrum • 1.4 Megapixel, 4 Megapixel, 8 Megapixel, or Fast Frame Rate CCD • CMOS n I/O Options • Camera Link • Gigabit Ethernet • USB 3.0 n Camera Body Options • Standard Non-Cooled • Hermetically Sealed with Two-Stage TEC • Private Labeling n Electronics Modifications n Optics Mounting Options (C-Mount Threading is Standard) n Software • Initial Evaluation Using ThorCam™ GUI for Cameras • Algorithm Development Using Popular Third-Party Support Such as MATLAB, µManager/ImageJ, LabVIEW, and Metamorph • API / SDK Provided for Software Developers and OEMs n Supply Chain • Kanban Stocking Agreements
Scientific Cameras CCD Cameras Overview
ThorCamTM Software ThorCam is a powerful image acquisition software package designed for use with any of our scientific cameras as well as the DCC224M camera on 32- and 64-bit Windows® 7 systems. The intuitive, easyto-use graphical user interface provides camera control as well as the ability to acquire and play back images. Thirdparty software support for packages such as LabVIEW, MATLAB, Metamorph, and µManager/ImageJ are included along with a development kit and application programming interfaces for the development of custom applications by OEMs and developers.
1.4 MP CCD Cameras
Features Set Camera Parameters • Readout Speed • Exposure Time • Triggers to Start Image Acquisition n Time Series Function for Time Lapse Images n Save Images in 16 Bit TIFF, PNG, or JPEG Format n Built-In Functions for Image Examination and Analysis n 3rd Party Software Support for LabVIEW, MATLAB, µManager/ImageJ, and Metamorph n
4 MP CCD Cameras 8 MP CCD Cameras Fast CCD Cameras Compact CCD Cameras Custom Cameras ThorCam Software Camera Noise Tutorial
Camera Control and Image Acquisition Camera Control and Image Acquisition functions are carried out through the icons along the top of the window, as seen in REC Figure 1. Camera parameters may be set in the popup window that appears upon clicking REC on the Tools icon. The Snapshot button allows a single image to be acquired using the 12 3 REC current camera settings.
Start Image REC Acquisition
12 12 The Start and Stop capture buttons begin 3 3 image capture according to the camera settings, including triggered imaging. 12 3
Tools
Capture a REC Single Frame Record Images to a Single, Multipage TIFF File Time Series
Figure 1: Camera control icons in the ThorCam software GUI can be accessed from the tool bar at the top of the window.
12 3
Timed Series The Timed Series control, shown in Figure 2, allows time-lapse images to be recorded. Simply set the total number of images and the time delay in between captures. The output will be saved in a multi-page TIFF file.
Figure 2: A timed series of 10 images taken at 1 second intervals is saved as a multipage TIFF.
323
REC REC
REC
Scientific Cameras CCD Cameras Overview
ThorCamTM Software
1.4 MP CCD Cameras
Measurement and Annotation
4 MP CCD Cameras 8 MP CCD Cameras Fast CCD Cameras Compact CCD Cameras Custom Cameras ThorCam Software Camera Noise Tutorial
REC REC REC
Histogram1
23
As shown in Figure 3, ThorCam has a number of built-in annotation and measurement functions to help analyze images after they have been acquired. Lines, rectangles, circles, and REC112233 REC REC REC freehand shapes can be drawn on 12 Draw on 3 the image. Text can be entered REC the Image to annotate marked locations. A Annotate the measurement mode allows the user Image with Text to determine the distance between Measure points of interest. 1 12 the Distance 12 REC 12 23 3 Points 3 Between 3 The features outlined below in 12 Figure 4 can be used to display 3 information about both live and captured images.
12 3
Line Profiles
Region of Intrest
12 Tally Counter 3
Pixel Peeker
Figure 3: Annotation and measurement functions can be accessed through the tool bar.
Pixel Peek
12 the value of the pixel that the mouse is This feature displays 3 currently over (gray box in the center), as well as pixel values in the surrounding neighborhood, for live or saved images.
Figure 4: Measurement Features
324
Histogram
Vertical and Horizontal Line Profiles
This window displays a histogram of the live or saved image data.
These windows are activated by two buttons that draw a movable vertical or horizontal line across the live or saved image. The plot shows the values of each pixel along the line.
Scientific Cameras
ThorCamTM Software
CCD Cameras Overview
Measurement and Annotation (Continued)
1.4 MP CCD Cameras
ThorCam also features a tally counter that allows the user to mark points of interest in the image and tally the number of points marked (see Figure 5). A crosshair target that is locked to the center of the image can be switched on to provide a point of reference.
4 MP CCD Cameras 8 MP CCD Cameras Fast CCD Cameras Compact CCD Cameras Custom Cameras ThorCam Software Camera Noise Tutorial
Figure 5: A screenshot of the ThorCam Software. The tally function was used to mark three locations in the image. The line to the lower left was added using the measurement function, with the distance between points in pixels displayed just above it.
Review Time Lapse and Series of Images Image sequences taken with our cameras are stored in multi-page TIFF files in order to preserve the highprecision, unaltered image data, as shown in Figure 6. Controls within ThorCam allow the user to play the sequence of images or step through them frame by frame.
Figure 6: Multipage TIFF files can be loaded into ThorCam so that data can be reviewed.
3rd Party Applications and Support Thorcam is bundled with support for thirdparty software packages such as LabVIEW, MATLAB, Metamorph, and ÂľManager / ImageJ (see Figure 7). Both 32- and 64-bit versions of LabVIEW and MATLAB are supported.
Figure 7: An image taken using the ThorCam Software is displayed in ImageJ.
325
Scientific Cameras CCD Cameras Overview 1.4 MP CCD Cameras 4 MP CCD Cameras 8 MP CCD Cameras Fast CCD Cameras Compact CCD Cameras Custom Cameras ThorCam Software Camera Noise Tutorial
Camera Noise and Temperature Overview When purchasing a camera, an important consideration is whether or not the application will require a cooled sensor. Due to the high-sensitivity and low noise of these scientific-grade cameras, most applications, including fluorescence microscopy, can be performed with exposures under 1 s, obviating the need for cooling. However, for certain situations, generally under low light levels where long exposures are necessary, cooling will provide a discernible benefit. For these low-noise, scientific-grade cameras, the following “rule of thumb” can be applied: for exposures less than 1 second, a standard camera is generally sufficient; for exposures greater than 5 seconds, cooling is generally recommended; and for exposures above 10 seconds, cooling is usually required. Please keep in mind that some applications are more sensitive to noise than others. If you have questions about which domain your application will fall into, please contact us, and one of our scientific camera specialists will help you decide which camera is right for you.
EXPOSURE
CAMERA RECOMMENDATIONS*
<1 s
Standard Non-Cooled Camera Generally Sufficient
1 s to 5 s
Cooled Camera Could Be Helpful
5 s to 10 s
Cooled Camera Recommended
>10 s
Cooled Camera Usually Required
*The following recommendations are general guidelines. Please visit www.thorlabs.com for a more detailed discussion of noise sources to consider when selecting a cooled or non-cooled camera for your application. If you have questions about which domain your application will fall into, please contact us, and one of our scientific specialist will help you decide which camera is right for you.
Sources of Noise Noise in a camera image is the aggregate spatial and temporal variation in the measured signal, assuming constant, uniform illumination. There are several components of noise: • Dark Shot Noise (σD) Dark current is a current that flows even when no photons are incident on the camera. It is a thermal phenomenon resulting from electrons spontaneously generated within the silicon chip (valence electrons are thermally excited into the conduction band). The variation in the number of dark electrons collected during the exposure is the dark shot noise. It is independent of the signal level but is dependent on the temperature of the sensor and the duration of exposure. • Read Noise (σR) This is the noise generated in producing the electronic signal. This results from the sensor design but can also be impacted by the design of the camera electronics. It is independent of signal level and temperature of the sensor, and is usually larger for faster CCD pixel clock rates. This is typically the dominant noise source when imaging at low light levels. • Photon Shot Noise (σS) This is the statistical noise associated with the arrival of photons at the pixel. Since photon measurements obey Poisson statistics, the photon shot noise is dependent on the signal level measured. It is independent of sensor temperature. This is usually the dominant noise source when imaging under bright light conditions. • Fixed Pattern Noise (σF) This is caused by spatial non-uniformities of the pixels and is independent of signal level and temperature of the sensor. Note that fixed pattern noise is ignored in this discussion; this is a valid assumption for the scientific CCD cameras described here but may need to be included for other non-scientific-grade sensors. Fluorescence Image of a Mouse Kidney
326
Scientific Cameras
Camera Noise and Temperature
CCD Cameras Overview
Total Effective Noise
1.4 MP CCD Cameras
The total effective noise per pixel, σeff, is the quadrature sum of each of the noise sources listed on the previous page:
4 MP CCD Cameras
σeff =
σD2 + σR2 + σS2
8 MP CCD Cameras
Here, σD is the dark shot noise, σR is the read noise, and σS is the photon shot noise. Again, fixed pattern noise is ignored, which is a good approximation for scientific-grade CCDs but may need to be considered for nonscientific-grade sensors.
Dark Shot Noise and Sensor Temperature As mentioned above, the dark current is a thermal effect and can therefore be reduced by cooling the sensor. The table to the right lists typical dark current values for the Sony ICX285AL CCD sensor used in our 1.4 megapixel cameras. As the dark current results from spontaneously generated electrons, the dark current is measured by simply "counting" these electrons. For a given exposure, the dark shot noise, σD, is the square root of the ID value from the table to the right (for a given sensor temperature) multiplied by the exposure time t in seconds:
σD =
TEMPERATURE
DARK CURRENT (ID)
-20 ˚C
0.1 e-/(s*pixel)
0 ˚C
1 e-/(s*pixel)
25 ˚C
5 e-/(s*pixel)
Fast CCD Cameras Compact CCD Cameras Custom Cameras ThorCam Software Camera Noise Tutorial
IDt
Since the dark current, ID, decreases with decreasing temperature, the associated dark-shot noise, σD, can be decreased by cooling the camera.
Photon Shot Noise If S is the number of "signal" electrons generated when a photon flux of N photons/second is incident on each pixel of a sensor with a quantum efficiency QE and an exposure duration of t seconds, then the photon shot noise is given by:
σS =
S=
(QE) Nt
A Scientific CCD Camera Shown Mounted on a Nikon FN1 Microscope with Thorlabs’ Confocal Scan Head.
If the photon shot noise is significantly larger than the dark shot noise, then cooling provides a negligible benefit in terms of the noise, and our standard package cameras will work well. For a more detailed explanation, including examples and graphs, please visit www.thorlabs.com.
Other Considerations Thermoelectric cooling should also be considered for long exposures even where the dark shot noise is not a significant contributor to total noise because cooling also helps to reduce the effects of hot pixels. Hot pixels cause a “star field” pattern that appears under long exposures. Sample images taken under conditions of no light, high gain, and long exposure are available on our website to illustrate this phenomenon.
327