Princeton 4411-0039-CE User Manual

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4411-0039-CE

Version 6.C

April 18, 2006

*4411-0039-CE*

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©Copy 3660 Quakerbridge Rd Trenton, NJ 08619 TEL: 800-874-9789 / 609-587-9797 FAX: 609-587-1970

right 2003-2006 division of Roper Scientific, Inc. Princeton Instruments, a

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The information in this publication is believed to be accurate as of the publication release date. However, Princeton Instrum resulting from the use thereof. The information contained herein is subject to change without notice. Revision of this publication may be issued to incorporate such change.

ents does not assume any responsibility for any consequences including any damages

may be reproduced by any means without the written

arks of Microsoft Corporation.

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Chapter 1 Introduction........................................................................................ 9

Introduction......................................................................................................................... 9

MicroMAX System Components ....................................................................................... 9

About this Manual ............................................................................................................ 12

Environmental Conditions ................................................................................................ 13

Grounding and Safety ....................................................................................................... 13

Precautions........................................................................................................................ 14

Repairs .............................................................................................................................. 14

Cleaning............................................................................................................................ 14

Princeton Instruments Customer Service.......................................................................... 14

Chapter 2 System Component Descriptions.................................................. 15

MicroMAX Camera.......................................................................................................... 15

ST-133 Controller ............................................................................................................. 18

Cables................................................................................................................................ 23

Interface Card ................................................................................................................... 23

Application Software ........................................................................................................ 23

User Manuals ....................................................................................................................24

Chapter 3 Installation Overview....................................................................... 25

Chapter 4 System Setup................................................................................... 27

Unpacking the System ...................................................................................................... 27

Checking the Equipment and Parts Inventory .................................................................. 27

System Requirements........................................................................................................ 28

Verifying Controller Voltage Setting................................................................................ 29

Installing the Application Software .................................................................................. 30

Setting up the Communication Interface .......................................................................... 30

Mounting the Camera ....................................................................................................... 34

Selecting the Shutter Setting............................................................................................. 39

Connecting the Interface (Controller-Computer) Cable ................................................... 39

Connecting the Detector-Controller Cable ....................................................................... 40

Entering the Default Camera System Parameters into WinX (WinView/32,

WinSpec/32, or WinXTest/32)..................................................................................... 40

Chapter 5 Operation.......................................................................................... 43

Introduction....................................................................................................................... 43

EMF and Xenon or Hg Arc Lamps................................................................................... 44

USB 2.0 System On/Off Sequences.................................................................................. 44

Imaging Field of View...................................................................................................... 45

RS-170 or CCIR Video..................................................................................................... 45

First Light (Imaging) ........................................................................................................ 47

First Light (Spectroscopy) ................................................................................................ 52

Exposure and Signal ......................................................................................................... 55

Readout .............................................................................................................................60

Digitization .......................................................................................................................71

iii

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iv MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

Chapter 6 Advanced Topics............................................................................. 73

Introduction....................................................................................................................... 73

Standard Timing Modes.................................................................................................... 74

Frame Transfer Operation................................................................................................. 78

Interline Operation............................................................................................................ 80

Fast and Safe Speed Modes ..............................................................................................83

TTL Control...................................................................................................................... 85

Kinetics Mode...................................................................................................................89

Chapter 7 MicroMAX DIF Camera (Double Image Feature)........................... 93

Introduction....................................................................................................................... 93

Timing Modes................................................................................................................... 94

Tips and Tricks ...............................................................................................................100

Chapter 8 Virtual Chip Mode .......................................................................... 103

Chapter 9 Troubleshooting ............................................................................ 111

Introduction..................................................................................................................... 111

Baseline Signal Suddenly Changes................................................................................. 112

Camera Stops Working................................................................................................... 112

Camera1 (or similar name) in Camera Name field ......................................................... 112

Changing the ST-133's Line Voltage and Fuses............................................................. 113

Controller Is Not Responding ......................................................................................... 114

Cooling Troubleshooting ................................................................................................ 114

Data Loss or Serial Violation.......................................................................................... 115

Data Overrun Due to Hardware Conflict message.......................................................... 116

Data Overrun Has Occurred message ............................................................................. 116

Demo is only Choice on Hardware Wizard:Interface dialog (Versions 2.5.19.0

and earlier)................................................................................................................ 117

Demo, High Speed PCI, and PCI(Timer) are Choices on Hardware

Wizard:Interface dialog (Versions 2.5.19.0 and earlier) .......................................... 118

Detector Temperature, Acquire, and Focus are Grayed Out (Versions 2.5.19.0

and earlier)................................................................................................................ 120

Error Creating Controller message ................................................................................. 121

Error Occurs at Computer Powerup................................................................................ 121

No CCD Named in the Hardware Wizard:CCD dialog (Versions 2.5.19.0 and

earlier) ...................................................................................................................... 124

Program Error message................................................................................................... 124

Removing/Installing a Plug-In Module .......................................................................... 125

Securing the Detector-Controller Cable Slide Latch ...................................................... 127

Serial violations have occurred. Check interface cable. ................................................. 128

Shutter Malfunctions....................................................................................................... 128

Appendix A Specifications............................................................................. 129

CCD Arrays .................................................................................................................... 129

Temperature Control....................................................................................................... 130

Cooling ........................................................................................................................... 130

Mounting......................................................................................................................... 130

Shutters ........................................................................................................................... 131

Inputs .............................................................................................................................. 131

Outputs............................................................................................................................ 131

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Table of Contents v

Programmable Interface.................................................................................................. 132

A/D Converter................................................................................................................. 132

Computer Requirements ................................................................................................. 132

Miscellaneous ................................................................................................................. 132

Appendix B Outline Drawings........................................................................ 133

Detectors ......................................................................................................................... 133

ST-133B Controller ........................................................................................................139

ST-133A Controller ........................................................................................................ 139

Appendix C Repumping the Vacuum............................................................ 141

Introduction..................................................................................................................... 141

Requirements .................................................................................................................. 141

Vacuum Pumpdown Procedure....................................................................................... 142

Appendix D Spectrometer Adapters ............................................................. 145

Acton (NTE with or without shutter).............................................................................. 146

Chromex 250 IS (NTE with or without shutter) ............................................................. 147

ISA HR 320 (NTE with or without shutter).................................................................... 148

ISA HR 640 (NTE with or without shutter).................................................................... 149

JY TRIAX family (NTE without shutter)....................................................................... 150

SPEX 270M (NTE with or without shutter) ................................................................... 151

SPEX 500M (NTE with or without shutter) ................................................................... 152

SPEX TripleMate (NTE with or without shutter)........................................................... 153

Appendix E USB 2.0 Limitations.................................................................... 155

Declarations of Conformity ............................................................................ 157

Warranty & Service ......................................................................................... 161

Limited Warranty............................................................................................................ 161

Contact Information........................................................................................................ 164

Index ................................................................................................................. 165

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Figures

Figure 1. MicroMAX Cameras and Controller.................................................................. 9

Figure 2. Power Switch Location (ST-133A and ST-133B)........................................... 18

Figure 3. ST-133 Rear Panel Callouts............................................................................. 19

Figure 4. Shutter Compensation Times ........................................................................... 22

Figure 5. Standard System Diagram ................................................................................ 26

Figure 6. Controller Power Input Module........................................................................ 29

Figure 7. WinView Installation: Interface Card Driver Selection ................................... 30

Figure 8. Bottom Clamps................................................................................................. 37

Figure 9. Bottom Clamp secured to Relay Lens .............................................................. 38

Figure 10. Shutter Setting for 25 mm Internal Shutter .................................................... 39

Figure 11. Camera Detection Wizard - Welcome dialog box.......................................... 41

Figure 12. RSConfig dialog box ...................................................................................... 41

Figure 13. Hardware Setup wizard: PVCAM dialog box ................................................ 42

Figure 14. Block Diagram of Light Path in System........................................................ 43

Figure 15. Imaging Field of View.................................................................................... 45

Figure 16. Monitor Display of CCD Image Center Area................................................. 46

Figure 17. Standard System Connection Diagram........................................................... 47

Figure 18. F-mount Focus Adjustment ............................................................................51

Figure 19. CCD Exposure with Shutter Compensation ................................................... 57

Figure 20. WinView/WinSpec Detector Temperature dialog box.................................. 58

Figure 21. Full Frame at Full Resolution......................................................................... 61

Figure 22. Frame Transfer Readout ................................................................................. 63

Figure 23. Overlapped Mode Exposure and Readout...................................................... 65

Figure 24. Non-Overlapped Mode Exposure and Readout.............................................. 66

Figure 25. 2 × 2 Binning for Full Frame CCD ................................................................ 68

Figure 26. 2 × 2 Binning for Interline CCD .................................................................... 69

Figure 27. Timing tab page.............................................................................................. 73

Figure 28. Free Run Timing Chart (part of the chart in Figure 40) ................................. 74

Figure 29. Free Run Timing Diagram.............................................................................. 75

Figure 30. Showing Shutter "Preopen" & "Normal" Modes in External Sync Operation76

Figure 31. External Sync Timing Diagram (- edge trigger)............................................. 76

Figure 32. Continuous Cleans Flowchart......................................................................... 77

Figure 33. Continuous Cleans Timing Diagram .............................................................. 78

Figure 34. Frame Transfer where tw1 + t Figure 35. Frame Transfer where tw1 + t

Figure 36. Frame Transfer where Pulse arrives after Readout......................................... 80

Figure 37. Overlapped Mode where tw1 + t Figure 38. Overlapped Mode where tw1 + t

Figure 39. Overlapped Mode where Pulse arrives after Readout ....................................82

Figure 40. Chart of Safe and Fast Mode Operation ......................................................... 84

Figure 41. TTL In/Out Connector.................................................................................... 87

Figure 42. TTL Diagnostics dialog box........................................................................... 87

Figure 43. Kinetics Readout ............................................................................................ 89

Figure 44. Hardware Setup dialog box ............................................................................ 90

Figure 45. Experiment Setup dialog box ......................................................................... 90

Figure 46. Free Run Timing Diagram.............................................................................. 91

Figure 47. Single Trigger Timing Diagram ..................................................................... 91

Figure 48. Multiple Trigger Timing Diagram.................................................................. 92

+ tc < tR................................................... 79

exp

+ tc > tR................................................... 79

exp

+ tc < tR............................................... 82

exp

+ tc > tR..................................................... 82

exp

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Table of Contents vii

Figure 49. Free Run Mode Timing Diagram ................................................................... 95

Figure 50. Setup using to Trigger an Event....................................................... 95

Figure 51. Timing for Experiment Setup shown in Figure 50......................................... 95

Figure 52. Timing Diagram for Typical IEC Measurement ............................................ 97

Figure 53. Setup for IEC Experiment with Two Lasers .................................................. 97

Figure 54. Timing Diagram for IEC Experiment with Two Lasers................................. 97

Figure 55. Another Hardware Setup for an IEC Measurement........................................ 98

Figure 56. EEC Timing Example with Exposure Time in Software Set to t Figure 57. ESABI Timing Example: Image Exposure time = t

Figure 58. Virtual Chip Functional Diagram................................................................. 103

Figure 59. System Diagram ...........................................................................................105

Figure 60. Virtual Chip dialog box................................................................................ 108

Figure 61. Camera1 in Camera Name Field................................................................... 112

Figure 62. Power Input Module..................................................................................... 113

Figure 63. Fuse Holder .................................................................................................. 113

Figure 64. Data Overrun Due to Hardware Conflict dialog box.................................... 116

Figure 65. Hardware Wizard: Interface dialog box ....................................................... 117

Figure 66. RSConfig dialog box .................................................................................... 117

Figure 67. Hardware Wizard: PVCAM dialog box .......................................................118

Figure 68. Hardware Wizard: Interface dialog box ....................................................... 118

Figure 69. RSConfig dialog box: Two Camera Styles .................................................. 119

Figure 70. Hardware Wizard: PVCAM dialog box .......................................................119

Figure 71. RSConfig dialog box: Two Camera Styles .................................................. 120

Figure 72. Error Creating Controller dialog box ........................................................... 121

Figure 73. Hardware Wizard: Detector/Camera/CCD dialog box ................................. 124

Figure 74. Program Error dialog box............................................................................. 124

Figure 75. Module Installation....................................................................................... 125

Figure 76. Serial Violations Have Occurred dialog box................................................ 128

Figure 77. Rectangular Camera Head: C-Mount ........................................................... 133

Figure 78. Rectangular Camera Head: F-Mount............................................................ 134

Figure 79. Rectangular Camera Head: Spectroscopy Mount with Shutter .................... 135

Figure 80. Rectangular Camera Head: Spectroscopy Mount without Shutter ............... 136

Figure 81. 1 MHz and 100kHz/1MHz Round Head Camera: C-Mount Adapter and

Shutter..................................................................................................................... 137

Figure 82. 1 MHz Round Head Camera: F-Mount Adapter .......................................... 138

Figure 83. ST-133B Controller Dimensions.................................................................. 139

Figure 84. ST-133A Controller Dimensions.................................................................. 139

Figure 85. Vacuum Connector Required for Pumping .................................................. 142

Figure 86. Removing the Back Panel ............................................................................ 142

Figure 87. Attaching the Vacuum Connector ................................................................ 143

Figure 88. Opening the Camera to the Vacuum System................................................ 143

set in software ....... 100

exp

............. 99

exp

Tables

Table 1. ST-133 Shutter Drive Selection.........................................................................

Table 2. PCI Driver Files and Locations ......................................................................... 31

Table 3. USB Driver Files and Locations........................................................................ 34

Table 4. Bottom Clamps for Different Microscopes........................................................ 37

Table 5. ST-133 Shutter Setting Selection....................................................................... 39

Table 6. Approximate Readout Time for the Full-Frame CCD Array............................. 62

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Table 7. Approximate Readout Time for the Frame-Transfer CCD Array...................... 63

Table 8. Approximate Readout Time for the Interline CCD Arrays................................ 67

Table 9. Readout Rates for PI 1300 × 1030 Array at 1 MHz .......................................... 67

Table 10. Well Capacity for some CCD Arrays .............................................................. 70

Table 11. Detector Timing Modes ................................................................................... 74

Table 12. Bit Values with Decimal Equivalents: 1 = High 0 = Low .............................. 86

Table 13. TTL In/Out Connector Pinout.......................................................................... 87

Table 14. MicroMAX:512BFT: Virtual Chip Size, Exposure Time, and Frames per

Second..................................................................................................................... 104

Table 15. I/O Address & Interrupt Assignments before Installing Serial Card ............. 122

Table 16. I/O Address & Interrupt Assignments after Installing Serial Card................ 122

Table 17. MicroMAX Model and CCD Types Cross Reference ................................... 129

Table 18. Shutter Compensation Times......................................................................... 131

Table 19. Features Supported under USB 2.0................................................................ 156

Page 9

Chapter 1 Introduction

Introduction

The Princeton Instruments MicroMAX system is a high-speed, low-noise CCD camera system designed for demanding imaging applications and is an optimal system for use in fluorescence microscopy applications such as high-resolution immunofluorescence, FISH or GFP imaging. The MicroMAX system incorporates a compact camera head, cooled CCD, advanced exposure-control timing, video output, and sophisticated readout capabilities.

Among the advantages of the MicroMAX concept are the range of CCD arrays available and the built-in video output m interline CCDs to provide true 12-bit images at a readout rate of up to 5 million pixels per second or with a variety of front or back-illuminated CCDs to provide true 16-bit images. The built-in video output mode simplifies setup and focusing on the microscope. The combination of the MicroMAX system with one of a variety of specialty software packages results in a powerful digital imaging system that can meet most experimental needs.

Note: "WinView/32" and "WinView" are used throughout this manual when referring to the application software. Unless otherwise indicated, the information associated with these terms also applies to Princeton Instruments' WinSpec/32 spectroscopy software.

ode. The system can be configured with a variety of

MicroMAX System Components

Overview

The MicroMAX imaging system consists of a camera (either a round head or a rectangular head depending on application), controller, digital interface card, a computer, cables, manuals, and application software. Together, these components allow you to acquire quantitative digital data under very low light imaging conditions. Each component is optimized for its specific function. In operation, data acquired by the

camera is routed to the controller and from there to the computer for processing and display. A composite video output allows immediate viewing of the acquired images on a separate monitor. The application software (for example, Princeton Instruments WinView/32) allows the computer to control both the system configuration and data acquisition.

Figure 1. MicroMAX Cameras and

Controller

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10 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

Camera

Introduction: The function of the camera is to collect very low intensity light and convert the energy into a quantitative, electronic signal (photo-electrons) over a two dimensional space. To do this, light from the subject is focused onto a CCD array, which accumulates photoelectrons for the exposure time. At the end of the exposure time, the image thus formed is read out. The accumulated charge on each cell of the array is transferred out of the CCD array, amplified, and sent to the controller as an analog signal, where it is digitized prior to transfer to the computer.

The camera is highly integrated, containing the shutter (if applicable) and thermoelectric cooler with optional forced-air supplem Surface mount electronic technology is used wherever possible, giving a compact package with uncompromising performance.

Depending on your application, the camera included in your MicroMAX system will be either a com

pact round camera head or a high performance, cooled, rectangular camera head. The round head features interline CCDs; its small size ensures that the camera can be mounted on virtually any microscope port, including those found on inverted microscopes. The rectangular head features back-illuminated CCDs with frame transfer readout.

ental cooling in a single, shielded housing.

At the heart of the camera is the CCD array centered on the optic axis. Available form

ats

include the:

• EEV CCD57-10, 512×512, 13×13µm pixels for the MicroMAX:512BFT

• EEV CCD47-10, 1024×1024, 13×13µm pixels for the MicroMAX:1024B

• Sony ICX075, 782×582, 8.3× 8.3µm pixels for the MicroMAX:782Yand the

MicroMAX:782YHS systems

• Sony ICX061,1300×1030, 6.7× 6.7µm pixels for the MicroMAX:1300Y, the

MicroMAX:1300YHS, and MicroMAX:1300YHS-DIF systems

A special clocking mode to minimize background signal is supported. See the Princeton Instruments brochures and data sheets for detailed specifications.

Cooling System: MicroMAX cam

eras have a multi-stage Peltier type cooler that is thermally coupled to the CCD surface. Heat is sequentially transferred through the Peltier stages and from there to the outer shell of the camera via a heat transfer block. This cooling system allows the camera to maintain CCD temperature of typically -15°C for

round cameras head and -45°C for rectangular camera heads. Cameras equipped with a

fan assembly can reach lower CCD temperatures for reduced thermal noise and extended exposure times.

Low Noise Readout: In order to achieve a low-noise readout of the CCD, several design features have been im

plemented. These include cooling the preamplifier on the CCD, isolating circuits to prevent electronic crosstalk and minimizing the path lengths of critical electronic circuits. The net result of these design features is the lowest available readout noise at the highest speed possible for these CCDs.

Controller

Data Conversion: The controller accepts the analog data and converts it to digital data using specially designed, low-noise electronics supporting scientific grade 12- or 16-bit Analog to Digital (A/D) converters.

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Chapter 1 Introduction 11

The standard MicroMAX Controller enables both high-speed and high-precision readout capabilities. It can collect 16-bit images at a readout rate of up to 1 million pixels per second (1 MHz) in the high-speed mode or at 100 thousand pixels per second (100 kHz) in the optional precision mode (16-bit). Switching between the two modes is under software control for total experiment automation.

Modular Design: In addition to containing the power supplies, the controller contains the analog and digital electronics, scan contro I/O connectors, all mounted on user-accessible plug-in modules. The design is highly modularized for flexibility and convenient servicing.

l and exposure timing hardware, and system

Flexible Readout: There is provision for extrem Readout modes supported include full resolution, simultaneous multiple subimages, and nonuniform binning. Single or multiple software-defined regions of interest can also be tested without having to digitize all the pixels of the array

High Speed Data Transfer: Data is transferred directly to the host computer memory via a high-speed serial link. A proprietary controller directly into the host computer RAM using Direct Memory Access (DMA). The DMA transfer process ensures that the data arrives at sufficiently high speed to prevent data loss from the controller. Since the data transfer rate is much higher than the output rate from the A/D, the latter becomes the data acquisition rate-limiting factor. Once the digital data is in RAM, the image acquisition program can transfer the image into its own working RAM for viewing and further processing.

Note: A frame buffer with standard composite video, either RS-170 (EIA) or CCIR, whichever was ordered, is also provided.

Interface card places the data from the

ely flexible readout of the CCD.

Applications

With its small size, fully integrated design, cooled CCD and temperature control, advanced exposure control timing, and sophisticated readout capabilities, the MicroMAX system is well suited to both general macro imaging and microscopy applications.

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12 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

About this Manual

Manual Organization

This manual provides the user with all the information needed to install a MicroMAX camera and place it in operation. Topics covered include a detailed description of the camera, installation, cleaning, specifications and more.

Notes:

1. The general identifier "ST-133" is used for both the ST-133A Controller and the

ST-133B Controller. Where there is a difference, the specific identifier is used.

2. "WinX" is a generic term for WinView, WinSpec, and WinXTest application

software.

Chapter 1,

details the structure of this manual; and documents environmental, storage, and cleaning requirements.

Chapter 2, System Component Descriptions provides descriptions of each

Chapter 1, Installation Overview cross-references sy

relevant manuals and/or manual pages. It also contains system layout diagrams.

Chapter 4, System Setup provides detailed directions for interconnecting the

Chapter 5, Operation discusses num

vacuum degradation, and sensitivity to damage from EMF spikes generated by Xenon or Hg arc lamps. Includes step-by-step directions for verifying system operation.

Chapter 6, Advanced Topics discusses standard tim

External Sync, and Continuous Cleans), frame transfer operation, interline operation, Fast and Safe speed modes, TTL control, and Kinetics mode.

Chapter 7, MicroMAX DIF Camera (Double Image Feature) describes DIF

(Dual Im

Chapter 8, Virtual Chip Mode describes how to set up and use the Virtual Chip

option, a special fast-acquisition technique.

Introduction briefly describes the MicroMAX family of cameras;

stem component.

stem setup actions with

stem components.

ber of topics, including temperature control,

ing modes (Free Run,

age Feature) camera and its operation.

Chapter 9, Troubleshooting provides courses of action to take if y

have problems with your system.

Appendix A, Specifications includes controller and camera specifications.

Appendix B, Outline Drawings includes outline drawings of the MicroMAX

eras and the ST-133A and ST-133B Controllers.

cam

Appendix C, Repumping the Vacuum explains how to restore the 1 MHz or

100kHz/1MHz round head cam time.

Appendix D, Spectrometer Adapters provides m

spectrometer adapters available for MicroMAX rectangular head (NTE) cameras.

era's vacuum if that vacuum has deteriorated over

ounting instructions for the

ou should

Page 13

Chapter 1 Introduction 13

Appendix E, USB 2.0 Limitations covers the currently known limitations

associated with operating under the USB 2.0 interface.

Declarations of Conformity contains the Declaration of Conform

(includes 100 kHz/1MHz) MicroMAX systems.

Warranty and Service provides warranty and customer support contact

inform

ation.

Safety Related Symbols Used in This Manual

Caution! The use of this symbol on equipment indicates that one or more nearby

items should not be operated without first consulting the manual. The same symbol appears in the manual adjacent to the text that discusses the hardware item(s) in question.

Caution! Risk of electric shock! The use of this sy indicates that one or more nearby items pose an electric shock hazard and should be regarded as potentially dangerous. This same symbol appears in the manual adjacent to the text that discusses the hardware item(s) in question.

Environmental Conditions

• Storage temperature: < 55°C

• Operating environm

• Relative hum

ent: 0°C to 30°C

idity: ≤50%, non-condensing.

ity for 1 MHz

mbol on equipment

Grounding and Safety

The apparatus described in this manual is of the Class I category as defined in IEC Publication 348 (Safety Requirements for Electronic Measuring Apparatus). It is designed for indoor operation only. Before turning on the controller, the ground prong of the power cord plug must be properly connected to the ground connector of the wall outlet. The wall outlet must have a third prong, or must be properly connected to an adapter that complies with these safety requirements.

WARNING

If the equipment is damaged, the protective grounding could be disconnected. Do not use

damaged equipment until its safety has been verified by authorized personnel. Disconnecting the protective earth terminal, inside or outside the apparatus, or any tampering with its operation is also prohibited.

Inspect the supplied power cord. If it is not compatible with the power socket, replace the cord with one that has suitable connectors on both ends.

Replacement power cords or power plugs must have the same polarity as that of the original ones to avoid hazard due to electrical shock.

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14 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

Precautions

To prevent permanently damaging the system, please observe the following precautions:

• Always switch off and unplug the ST-133 Controller before changing your system

configuration in any way.

• Never remove the camera’s front window, as it is necessary to maintain vacuum (or

to maintain a dry nitrogen environment).

• The CCD array is very sensitive to static electricity. Touching the CCD can destroy

it. Operations requiring contact with the device can only be performed at the factory.

• Never operate the camera cooled without proper evacuation or backfill. This could

damage the CCD!

• Never connect or disconnect any cable while the MicroMAX system is powered on.

Reconnecting a charged cable may damage the CCD.

• Never prevent the free flow of air through the equipment by blocking the air vents.

Repairs

Cleaning

WARNING!

Repairs must be done by Princeton Instruments. If your system hardware needs repair, contact Princeton Instruments Customer Service. Please save the original packing material so you can safely ship the system to another location or return it for repairs.

Turn off all power to the equipment and secure all covers before cleaning the units. Otherwise, damage to the equipment or personal injury could occur.

Camera and Controller

Although there is no periodic maintenance that must be performed on the camera or the

ST-133 Controller, you may clean these components from time to time by wiping them down with a clean damp cloth. This operation should only be done on the external surfaces and with all covers secured. In dampening the cloth, use clean water only. No soap, solvents or abrasives should be used. Not only are they not required, but they could damage the finish of the surfaces on which they are used.

Optical Surfaces

Optical surfaces may need to be cleaned due to the accumulation of atmospheric dust. We

advise that the drag-wipe technique be used. This involves dragging a clean cellulose

lens tissue dampened with clean anhydrous methanol over the optical surface to be cleaned. Do not allow any other material to touch the optical surfaces.

Princeton Instruments Customer Service

Refer to the contact information located on page 164 of this manual.

Page 15

Chapter 2 System Component Descriptions

MicroMAX Camera

CCD Array: MicroMAX offers a choice of CCD technologies to improve quantum

efficiency (QE) and blue/green sensitivity. Arrays are available in full-frame, interline, and frame-transfer formats. Thinned, back-illuminated devices have a higher QE across the entire visible spectrum and far superior sensitivity in the blue/ green region than front-illuminated CCDs. The MicroMAX combines back-illumination technology with frame-transfer readout to provide high sensitivity with nonshuttered operation. Interlinetransfer CCDs contain alternate columns of imaging and storage cells.

Because the charge on each image pixel never has to transfer m transfer can be made very quickly without smearing. By attaching microlenses to an interline-transfer CCD, incident light is directed to the photosensitive areas of the sensor. As a result, lens-on-chip formats dramatically improve the QE in the blue/green region of the spectrum while still allowing fast imaging. Since no shutter is required, high-speed gating and faster focus are possible.

CCD Chamber: The vacuum contamination as well as insulates it from the warmer air in the camera body. The inherent low humidity prevents condensation on the cooled surface of the array. The thermal barrier provided by the vacuum isolates the window from the cooled CCD, keeps the window from cooling below the dewpoint, and thereby prevents condensation on the outside of the window.

MicroMAX cameras are normally shipped with a vacuum level of ~10 mTorr or better. Because this vacuum components, round head MicroMAX cameras are designed with a built-in vacuum port that can be used to restore the vacuum to its original level. Instructions for repumping the

vacuum are provided in Appendix C.

Window: The cam quartz window is integral to the vacuum chamber. By having only one window, the MicroMAX camera reduces the chance of image degradation due to multiple reflections, stray light, and interference patterns that may occur with a multiple-window design.

may deteriorate over time due to outgassing of electrical

era has one window in the optical path. The high-quality optical

-sealed CCD chamber protects the CCD from

ore than one row, the

Thermoelectric Cooler: While the CCD accum electrons, generating dark current. Cooling the CCD enhances the low-light sensitivity by reducing thermally generated charge. With forced-air assistance the MicroMAX camera’s thermoelectric cooler is capable of cooling the CCD to -35°C with ±0.04°C stability at temperature lock.

Cooling is accomplished by mounting the CCD on a cold finger, which in turn is seated on a therm stages to the camera body where the heat is then radiated via a fins and removed by

oelectric (Peltier-effect) cooler, and then transferring heat through the Peltier

ulates charge, thermal activity releases

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16 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

forced air. CCD temperature is controlled and monitored by via the host computer and the ST-133 Controller.

Shutter: Rectangular head cam

A shutter drive signal is available at the Remote shutter connector on the rear of the ST-133 Controller or on the rear of the cam

Electronics: The camera electronics enclosure contains the preamplifier and array driver board. This design keeps all signal leads to the pream and also provides complete RF shielding.

Speed of data acquisition and dynamic range is determ converter used (binning on the array is also a factor). MicroMAX cameras are available with 100 kHz (16-bit A/D), 100 kHz /1 MHz (16-bit A/D), 1 MHz (12-bit A/D), or 1 MHz (16-bit A/D). The dual 16-bit digitizers give you the choice of the 100 kHz A/D for the better signal-to-noise ratio or the 1 MHz, 16-bit A/D for increased data acquisition speed.

Connectors: Power, control signals, and data are transm MicroMAX camera via the 25-pin D connector located on the rear of the 1 MHz or 100kHz/1 MHz camera. The cables and connectors are keyed so that they cannot be connected incorrectly.

Lens Mount Housing: At the front of the cam mount or F-mount. The C-mount employs a standard size thread to make the connection while an F-mount uses a tongue and groove type mechanism to secure the lens or microscope adapter to the camera. The details of the housing will vary depending on the type of mount.

eras are available with an internal 25 mm shutter.

era.

plifier as short as possible

ined primarily by the A/D

itted between the ST-133 and the

era is the lens mount housing, either C-

Caution

Note: C-mount cameras are shipped with a dust cover lens installed. Although this lens

is capable of providing surprisingly good images, its throughput is low and the image quality is not as good as can be obtained with a high-quality camera lens. Users should replace the dust-cover lens with their own high-quality laboratory lens before making measurements.

If you have a camera with a UV scintillator coated CCD, protect it from excessive exposure to UV radiation. This radiation slowly bleaches the scintillator, reducing sensitivity.

Mounting Holes: The round head camera has four ¼″ x 20 UNC threaded holes on the camera body at 90° intervals. These holes are provided for flexibility in mounting the camera to your system optics. The rectangular head camera can be ordered with an optional tripod mount kit.

Fan: Depending on the cam camera's back panel. Its purpose is:

• to rem

• to cool the electronics.

An internal Peltier device directly cools the cold finger on which the CCD is m The heat produced by the Peltier device is then removed by the air drawn into the camera by the internal fan and exhausted through the back panel. The fan is always in operation and air cooling of both the Peltier and the internal electronics takes place continuously.

ove heat from the Peltier device that cools the CCD array

era, there may be an internal fan located inside or on the

ounted.

Page 17

Chapter 2 System Component Descriptions 17

The fan is designed for low-vibration and does not adversely affect the image. For the fan to function properly, free circulation must be maintained between the rear of the camera and the laboratory atmosphere.

WARNING

Shutter: In imaging applications an adapter is m

either C-mount or F-mount, is mounted to the adapter. An F-mount adapter and a C-mount adapter differ not only in their lens-mounting provisions, but also in depth because the focal plane of F-mount lenses is deeper than that of C-mount lenses. Nevertheless, rectangular head cameras can be ordered with an internal 25 mm shutter and the appropriate lens mount adapter already installed.

Shutter Life: Note that shutters are m on the order of a million cycles, although some individual shutters may last a good deal longer. How long a shutter lasts in terms of experimental time will, of course, be strongly dependent on the operating parameters. High repetition rates and short exposure times will rapidly increase the number of shutter cycles and decrease the time when the shutter will have to be replaced. Possible shutter problems include complete failure, in which the shutter no longer operates at all, or the shutter may stick open or closed causing overexposed or smeared images. It may even happen that one leaf of the shutter will break and no longer actuate.

Shutter replacement is usually done at the factory. If you find that the shutter on your cam

era is malfunctioning, contact the factory to arrange for a shutter-replacement repair.

Disconnecting or connecting the shutter cable to the camera while the controller is on can

destroy the shutter or the shutter drive circuitry. Always power off the controller before adjusting the shutter cable.

echanical devices with a finite lifetime, typically

ounted to the camera and then the lens,

Page 18

18 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

ST-133 Controller

Electronics: The Model ST-133 is a compact, high performance CCD Camera

Controller for operation with Princeton Instruments cameras. Designed for high speed and high performance image acquisition, the ST-133 offers data transfer at speeds up to 5 Megapixel per second, standard video output for focusing and alignment. A variety of A/D converters are available to meet different speed and resolution requirements.

In addition to containing the power supply, the controller contains the analog and digital electronics, scan control and exposure timing hardware, and controller I/O connectors, all mounted on user-accessible plug-in modules. This highly modularized design gives flexibility and allows for convenient servicing.

WARNING

POWER Switch and Indicator: The power s

witch location (see Figure 2) and characteristics depend on the version of ST-133 Controller that was shipped with y system. In some versions, the power switch is on the front and has an integral indicator LED that lights whenever the ST-133 is powered. In other versions, the power switch is located on the back of the ST-133 and does not include an indicator LED.

our

SHUTTER CONTROL

REMOTE

120Vac

LEFT: FUSES: RIGHT:

0.75A - T 100 - 120V

1.25 A - T 220 - 240 V 50-60Hz 420 W MAX

Rear Panel Connectors: There are three controller board slots. Two are occupied by

the plug-in cards that

provide various controller functions. The third,

Figure 2. Power Switch Location

(ST-133A and ST-133B)

covered with a blank panel, is reserved for future development. The left-most plug-in card is the Analog/Control module. Adjacent to it is the Interface Control module. Both modules align with top and bottom tracks and mate with a passive back-plane via a 64pin DIN connector. For proper operation, the location of the modules should not be changed. Each board is secured by two screws that also ground each module’s front panel. Removing and inserting boards is described in Chapter 9, pages

125-126.

To minimize the risk of equipment damage, a module should never be removed or

installed when the system is powered.

The Analog/Control Module, which should always be located in the left-most slot, provides the following functions.

• Pixel A/D conversion • Tim

• CCD scan control • Tem

ing and synchronization of readouts

perature control

• Exposure control • Video output control

SETTING

3.50A - T

1.80A - T

The Interface Control Module, which should alway provides the following functions.

• TTL In/Out Program

• Com

munications Control (TAXI or USB 2.0 protocol)

mable Interface

s be located in the center slot,

Page 19

Chapter 2 System Component Descriptions 19

WARNING

Always turn the power off at the Controller before connecting or disconnecting any cable that interconnects the camera and controller or serious damage to the CCD may result.

This damage is NOT covered by the manufacturer’s warranty.

USB 2.0

SHUTTER CONTROL

AUX

REMOTE

SETTING

TTL

IN/OUT

120Vac

USB 2.0

Interface Control Module

Figure 3. ST-133 Rear Panel Callouts

TAXI

LEFT: FUSES: RIGHT:

0.75A - T 100 - 120V

1.25 A - T 220 - 240 V 50-60Hz 420 W MAX

3.50A - T

1.80A - T

Page 20

20 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

The descriptions of the rear panel connectors are keyed to the accompanying figure. Depending on your system, either the TAXI or the USB 2.0 Interface Control Module will be installed in the second from the left slot (as you face the rear of the ST-133). In TAXI m

odule is shown in that position.

Figure 3, the

# Feature

1. Temperature Lock LED: Indicates that the temperature control loop has locked and that

the temperature of the CCD array will be stable to within ± 0.05°C.

2. Video/Aux Output: Composite video output is provided at this connector; if labeled Aux,

this output is reserved for future use. The Video output amplitude is 1 V pk-pk and the source impedance is 75 Ω. Either RS-170 (EIA) or CCIR standard video can be provided and must be specified when the system is ordered. The video should be connected to the monitor via 75 Ω coaxial cable and it must be terminated into 75 Ω.

Note that video output is not currently supported under USB 2.0.

3. External Sync Input: TTL input that has a 10 kΩ pullup resistor. Allows data acquisition

and readout to be synchronized with external events. Through software, positive or negative (default) triggering can be selected.

4. Output WinX/32 (ver. 2.4 and higher) software-selectable NOT SCAN or

SHUTTER signal. Default is SHUTTER. NOT SCAN reports when the controller is finished reading out the CCD array. NOT SCAN is high when the CCD array is not being scanned, then drops low when readout begins, returning to high when the process is finished. The second signal, SHUTTER, reports when the shutter is opened and can be used to synchronize external shutters. SHUTTER is low when the shutter is closed and goes high when the shutter is activated, dropping low again after the shutter closes. See Figure 4 for timing diagram.

5. Output: Initially HIGH. After a Start Acquisition command, this output changes

state on completion of the array cleaning cycles that precede the first exposure. Initially high, it goes low to mark the beginning of the first exposure. In free run operation it

remains low until the system is halted. If a specific number of frames have been programmed, it remains low until all have been taken, then returns high.

6. Zero Adjustment: (1 MHz and 100kHz/1 MHz systems) Control the offset values of the

Fast (F) and Slow (S) A/D converters; if potentiometers are not present, bias may be software-settable. Preadjusted at factory. The offset is a voltage that is added to the signal to bring the A/D output to a non-zero value, typically 50-100 counts. This offset value ensures that all the true variation in the signal can really be seen and not lost below the A/D “0” value. Since the offset is added to the signal, these counts only minimally reduce the range of the signal from 4095 to a value in the range of 50-100 counts lower. Adjusting a potentiometer clockwise increases the counts while rotating it counterclockwise decreases the counts. If potentiometers are not present, bias may be software-settable.

CAUTION: Do not adjust the offset values to zero, or some low-level data will be missed.

7. Detector Connector: (1MHz and 1 MHz/100kHz systems) Transmits control information

to the camera and receives data back from the camera via the Detector-Controller cable.

8. TTL In/Out: User-programmable interface with eight input bits and eight output bits that

can be written to or polled for additional control or functionality. Output is not currently supported under USB 2.0. See Chapter 6.

9. AUX Output: Reserved for future use.

Page 21

Chapter 2 System Component Descriptions 21

# Feature

10. Serial COM Connector: Provides two-way serial communication between the controller and

the host computer. Uses TAXI protocol. Contact the factory if an application requires use of the optional fiber-optic data link to increase the maximum allowable distance between the camera and the computer.

11. Fan: Cools the controller electronics. Runs continuously when the controller is turned on. Do

not block the side vents or the fan exhaust port.

12. Shutter Setting Selector: Sets the shutter hold voltage. Dial is correctly set at the factory

for the camera’s internal shutter if one is present. Refer to Table 1 for setting selection.

13. Remote Shutter Connector: Provides shutter-hold pulses for a 25 mm Princeton

Instruments-supplied external shutter (typically an entrance slit shutter).

WARNING:

connector. To avoid shock hazard, the Controller power should be OFF when connecting or disconnecting a remote shutter.

Dangerous live potentials are present at the Remote Shutter Power

WARNING: If t

not be used to drive a second external shutter. This configuration will result in under- powering both shutters and may cause damage to the system In a system which requires

both an internal and an external shutter, use the Shutter signal (provided at the connector when selected by an internal jumper or by software parameter selection) to control the external shutter. Suitable driver electronics will additionally be required. Contact the factory Technical Support Dept. for information.

14. Power Input Module: Contains the powercord socket and two fuses. Depending on the

ST-133 version, the power switch may be located directly above the power module.

15. Fuse/Voltage Label: Displays the controller’s power and fuse requirements. This label

may appear above the power module.

16. USB 2.0 Connector: Provides two-way serial communication between the controller and the

host computer. Uses USB 2.0 protocol.

he camera has an internal shutter, then the Shutter Power connector should

WARNING

: Dangerous live potentials are present at the Remote Shutter Power

connector. To avoid shock hazard, the Controller power should be OFF when connecting or disconnecting a remote shutter.

Shutter Setting* Shutter Type

1 25 mm Princeton Instruments supplied External shutter

(typically an Entrance slit shutter)

2 25 mm Princeton Instruments Internal shutter

4 35 mm Princeton Instruments Internal shutter (requires

70 V Shutter option), supplied with rectangular head camera having 1300 × 1340 CCD

5 40 mm Princeton Instruments Internal shutter

* Shutter settings 0, 3, and 6-9 are unused and are reserved for future use.

Table 1. ST-133 Shutter Drive Selection

Page 22

22 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

WARNING

Selecting the wrong shutter setting will result in improper functioning of the shutter and may cause premature shutter failure.

exp

Shutter

NOTSCAN

= Exposure Time

exp

= Readout Time

= Shutter Compensation Time

Shutter Type Compensation Time

NONE 200 nsec

Electronic 6.0 msec

Remote (Roper Scientific 23 mm, External, 8.0 msec typically a slit shutter)

Small (Roper Scientific 25 mm, Internal) 8.0 msec

Large (Roper Scientific 35/40 mm, External) 28.0 msec

Figure 4. Shutter Compensation Times

Page 23

Chapter 2 System Component Descriptions 23

Cables

Detector-Controller: 1 MHz or 100kHz/1MHz systems. The standard 10' cable

(6050-0321) has DB-25 Male connectors with cable interconnects the Detector connector on the rear of the ST-133 with the Detector connector on the back of the MicroMAX camera. The Detector-Controller

cable is also available in 6', 15', 20', and 30' lengths.

Interface Cable: Depending on the system configuration, either a TAXI or a USB cable will be shipped.

slide-latch locking hardware. This

Interface Card

PCI Card: This interface card is required when the system interface uses the TAXI protocol rather than USB 2.0. The PCI card plugs-into the host computer's motherboard and provides the serial communication interface between the host computer and the ST-133. Through WinView/32, the card can be used in either

Speed PCI

interrupt-driven and can give higher performance in some situations. allows data transfer to be controlled by a polling timer.

USB 2.0 Card: This interface card is required when the system interface uses the USB 2.0 protocol rather the TAXI protocol and the computer does not have native USB 2.0 support. The USB 2.0 card plugs-into the host computer's motherboard and provides the communication interface between the host computer and the ST-133. The USB 2.0 PCI card (70USB90011) by Orange Micro is recommended for desktop computers; the SIIG, Inc. USB 2.0 PC Card, Model US2246 is recommended for laptop computers. See more information.

TAXI: The standard 25' (7.6 m) cable (6050-0148-CE) has DB-9 Male connectors with screw-down locking hardware. The TAXI (Serial

munication) cable interconnects the "Serial Com" connector on the rear of

com the ST-133 with the PCI card installed in the host computer. In addition to the standard length, this cable is available in 10', 50', 100', and 165' lengths. Also available are fiber optic adapters with fiber optic cables in 100, 300, and 1000 meter lengths.

USB 2.0: The standard 16.4' that interconnect the "USB 2.0" connector on the rear of the ST-133 with a USB card installed in the host computer.

or PCI(Timer) mode. High Speed PCI allows data transfer to be

www.orangemicro.com

(5 m) cable (6050-0494) has USB connectors

High

PCI(Timer)

or www.siig.com, respectively, for

Application Software

The Princeton Instruments WinView/32 software package provides comprehensive image acquisition, display, processing, and archiving functions so you can perform complete data acquisition and analysis without having to rely upon third-party software. WinView/32 provides reliable control over all Roper Scientific detectors, regardless of array format and architecture, via an exclusive universal programming interface (PVCAM WinView/32 also features snap-ins and macro record functions to permit easy user customization of any function or sequence.

Page 24

24 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

PVCAM is the standard software interface for cooled CCD cameras from Roper Scientific. It is a library of functions that can be used to control and acquire data from the camera when a custom application is being written. For example, in the case of Windows, PVCAM is a dynamic link library (DLL). Also, it should be understood that PVCAM is solely for camera control and image acquisition, not for image processing. PVCAM places acquired images into a buffer, where they can then be manipulated using either custom written code or by extensions to other commercially available image processing packages.

User Manuals

MicroMAX System User Manual: This manual describes how to install and use the

MicroMAX system components.

WinView/32 User Manual: This manual describes how to install and use the WinView/32 application program. A PDF version of this manual is provided on the installation CD. Additional information is available in the program's on-line help.

Page 25

Chapter 3 Installation Overview

The list and diagrams below briefly describe the sequence of actions required to hookup your system and prepare to gather data. Refer to the indicated references for more detailed information. This list assumes that the application software is Princeton Instruments WinView/32.

Action Reference

1. If the system components have not already been unpacked, unpack

them and inspect their carton(s) and the system components for intransit damage. Store the packing materials.

2. Verify that all system components have been received. Chapter 4 System Setup,

3. If the components show no signs of damage, verify that the

appropriate voltage settings have been selected for the Controller.

4. If WinView/32 software is not already installed in the host

computer, install it. In addition to installing the WinView/32 software, this operation will load all of the interface card drivers.

5. If the appropriate interface card is not already installed in the host

computer, shut down the computer and install the interface card.

6. Depending on the application, attach a lens to the camera, mount the

camera to a microscope, or mount the camera to a spectrometer.

7. With the Controller and computer power turned OFF, connect the

interface cable (TAXI or USB) to the Controller and the interface card in the host computer. Then tighten down the locking hardware.

8. With the Controller power turned OFF, make the camera-to-

controller connections to the back of the Controller. Secure the latch(es) to lock the cable connection(s).

Chapter 4 System Setup,

page

Chapter 4 System Setup,

page

Chapter 4 System Setup,

page

WinView/32 manual

Chapter 4 System Setup,

30 or page 32

page

Chapter 4 System Setup,

34, 35, or 38

page

Chapter 4 System Setup,

page

Chapter 4 System Setup,

page

9. With the Controller power turned OFF, make the camera-to-

controller connections to the back of the Camera. Secure the latch(es) to lock the cable connection(s).

10. With the Controller power turned OFF, connect the Controller

power cable to the rear of the controller and to the power source.

11. If using a microscope Xenon or an Hg arc lamp, turn it on before

turning on the controller and host computer.

12. Turn the Controller ON.

Chapter 4 System Setup,

page

Chapter 5 Operation,

page

Page 26

26 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

Action Reference

13. Turn on the computer and begin running the WinX application. WinView/32 manual

14. Run the Camera Detection wizard or load the defaults from the

controller.

Chapter 5 Operation,

40, 48, or 53

page

WinView/32 or WinSpec/32 m

anual

15. Set the target array temperature. Chapter 5 Operation,

48, 53, or 58

page

16. When the system reaches temperature lock, begin acquiring data in

focus mode.

Chapter 5 Operation,

50 or page 54

page

17. Adjust the focus for the image. Chapter 5 Operation,

50 or page 54

page

Detector-Controller

Camera

Microscope

Detector

Controller

Interface cable

(TAXI or USB 2.0)

110/220

Serial Com or USB 2.0

110/220

Computer

EXPERIMENT

Figure 5. Standard System Diagram

Page 27

Chapter 4 System Setup

Unpacking the System

During the unpacking, check the system components for possible signs of shipping damage. If there are any, notify Princeton Instruments and file a claim with the carrier. If damage is not apparent but camera or controller specifications cannot be achieved, internal damage may have occurred in shipment. Please save the original packing materials so you can safely ship the camera system to another location or return it to Princeton Instruments for repairs if necessary.

Checking the Equipment and Parts Inventory

Confirm that you have all of the equipment and parts required to set up the system. A complete MicroMAX system consists of a camera, a controller, a computer and other components as follows.

• Camera to Controller cable: D

this cable are available, one having an external shield and the other not. The shielded version offers superior noise performance and is required by regulation in some countries.

• Computer Interface Dependent Components:

• Controller-Computer Interface cable:

• TAX

• USB cable: Five (5) m

• Interface Card:

• TAXI:

• USB 2.0: Native on m

• Vacuum

necessary to refresh the vacuum for round camera heads. Contact the factory Technical Support Dept. for information on refreshing the vacuum. See page contact information.

I cable: 25 ft DB9 to DB9 cable (6050-0148-CE) is standard. Lengths

up to 165 ft (50 m) are available. Optional fiber-optic transducers can be used to extend this distance to as much as 1000 meters or

High Speed PCI Interface board or

(Orange Micro 70USB90011 USB2.0 PCI is recommended for desktop computers and the SIIG, Inc. USB 2.0 PC Card, Model US2246 is recommended for laptop computers).

Pumpdown connector (2550-0181): This item is required if it becomes

B25 to DB25, 10 ft (6050-0321). Two versions of

eter cable (6050-0494) is standard.

otherboard or user-provided USB 2.0 Interface Card

164 for

• WinView/32 CD-ROM

• User Manual

Page 28

28 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

System Requirements

Power

Detector: The MicroMAX detector receives its power from the controller, which in turn

plugs into a source of AC power.

Caution

ST-133: The ST-133 Controller can operate from

any one of four different nominal line voltages: 100, 120, 220, or 240 V AC. Refer to the Fuse/Voltage label on the back of the ST-133 for fuse, voltage, and power consumption information.

The plug on the line cord supplied with the system

should be compatible with the linevoltage outlets in common use in the region to which the system is shipped. If the line cord plug is incompatible, a compatible plug should be installed, taking care to maintain the proper polarity to protect the equipment and assure user safety.

Host Computer

Note: Computers and operating systems all undergo frequent revision. The following information is only intended to give an approximate indication of the computer requirements. Please contact the factory to determine your specific needs.

Requirements for the host computer depend on the type of interface, TAXI or USB 2.0, that will be used for com requirements are a listed below according to protocol.

TAXI Protocol:

• AT-com

• Windows

patible computer with 200 MHz Pentium

2000, or Windows

munication between the ST-133 and the host computer. Those

II (or better).

95, Windows® 98SE, Windows® ME, Windows NT®, Windows®

XP operating system.

• High speed PCI serial card (or an unused PCI card slot). Com

puters purchased from Princeton Instruments are shipped with the PCI card installed if High speed PCI was ordered.

• Minim

um of 32 Mbytes of RAM for CCDs up to 1.4 million pixels. Collecting multiple spectra at full frame or high speed may require 128 Mbytes or more of RAM.

• CD-ROM drive.

• Hard disk with a m

inimum of 80 Mbytes available. A complete installation of the program files takes about 17 Mbytes and the remainder is required for data storage, depending on the number and size of images or spectra collected. Disk level compression programs are not recommended.

• Super VGA m

onitor and graphics card supporting at least 256 colors with at least 1 Mbyte of memory. Memory requirement is dependent on desired display resolution.

• IEEE-488 GPIB port (required by

DG535 Timing Generator, if present). May

also be required by Spectrograph.

• Two-button Microsoft com

patible serial mouse or Logitech three-button

serial/bus mouse.

Page 29

Chapter 4 System Setup 29

USB 2.0 Protocol:

• AT-com

better.

• Windows 2000 (with Service Pack 4), Windows XP (with Service Pack 1) or

later operating sy

• Native USB 2.0 support on the m

Micro 70USB90011 USB2.0 PCI is recommended for desktop; SIIG, Inc. USB

2.0 PC Card, Model US2246 for laptop)

• Minim

• CD-ROM drive.

• Hard disk with a m

program files takes about 17 Mbytes and the remainder is required for data storage, depending on the number and size of images or spectra collected. Disk level compression programs are not recommended.

• Super VGA m

1 Mbyte of memory. Memory requirement is dependent on desired display resolution.

• IEEE-488 GPIB port (required by

also be required by Spectrograph.

• Two-button Microsoft com

serial/bus mouse.

patible computer with Pentium 3 or better processor and runs at 1 GHz or

stem.

other board or USB Interface Card (Orange

um of 256 Mb of RAM.

inimum of 80 Mbytes available. A complete installation of the

onitor and graphics card supporting at least 256 colors with at least

DG535 Timing Generator, if present). May

patible serial mouse or Logitech three-button

Verifying Controller Voltage Setting

The Power Module on the rear of the Controller contains the voltage selector drum, fuses and the powercord connector. The appropriate voltage setting is set at the factory and can be seen on the back of the power module.

Each setting actually defines a range and the setting that is closest to the actual line voltage should have been selected. The fuse and

power requirem module. The correct fuses for the country where the ST-133 is to be shipped are installed at the factory.

Note: On ST-133s, the voltage ranges and fuse ratings may be printed above or below the power module (Figure 6).

To Check the Controller's Voltage Setting:

1. Look at the lower righthand corner on the rear of the Controller. The current voltage

setting (100, 120, 220, or 240 VAC) is display

2. If the setting is correct, continue with the installation. If it is not correct, follow the

instructions on page

ents are printed on the panel above the power

113 for changing the voltage setting and fuses.

Figure 6. Controller

Power Input Module

ed on the Power Module.

Page 30

30 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

Installing the Application Software

Installation is performed via the WinView/32 installation process. If you are installing WinView or WinSpec for the first time, you should run the installation before installing the Princeton Instruments (RSPI) PCI or USB2.0 card in the host computer. On the

Components

dialog box (see Figure 7), click on the button to install the interface card drivers (the Princeton Instruments (RSPI) PCI and the USB drivers) and the most commonly installed program files. Select the

button if you would like to choose among the available program files.

Note: WinView/32 (versions 2.6.0 and higher) do not support the ISA interface.

Select

AUTO PCI

Custom

Figure 7. WinView Installation: Interface Card

Driver Selection

Setting up the Communication Interface

MicroMAX camera systems require either an installed Princeton Instruments (RSPI) PCI card or an installed USB2.0 interface card in the host computer. The type of interface card is dictated by the Interface Control Module installed in the ST-133 controller.

Setting up a PCI Interface

Administrator privileges are required under Windows NT®, Windows® 2000, and Windows® XP to install software and hardware.

A Princeton Instruments (RSPI) PCI card must be installed in the host computer if the communication between computer and controller uses the TAXI protocol (i.e.,

Interface Control Module installed in the ST-133 has a 9-pin SERIAL COM

the connector as shown in the figure at right). With TAXI protocol, the standard cable provided with an ST-133 is 7.6 meters (25 feet). Cable lengths up to 50 meters (164 feet) are available and the digitization rate may be as high as 2 MHz.

A computer purchased from Princeton Instruments will be shipped with the PCI card already will have to install it in the host computer at your location.

Note: The PCI card can be installed and operated in any Macintosh having a

PCI bus, allowing the ST-133 to be controlled from the Macintosh via IPLab™ software and the PI Extension.

installed. Otherwise, a PCI card will be shipped with the system and you

TTL IN/OUT

AUX

SERIAL COM

Caution

If using WinX software, Select either

High Speed PCI or PCI(Timer) as the Interface

type. This selection is accessed on the Hardware Setup|Interface tab page. High Speed

PCI allows data transfer to be interrupt-driven and gives the highest performance in some

situations. PCI(Timer) allows data transfer to be controlled by a polling timer. This selection is recommended when there are multiple devices sharing the same interrupt.

Page 31

Chapter 4 System Setup 31

To Install a PCI Serial Buffer Card in the Host Computer:

1. Review the docum

entation for your computer and PCI card before continuing

with this installation.

2. To avoid risk of dangerous electrical shock and dam

age to the computer, verify

that the computer power is OFF.

3. Remove the computer cover and verify that there is an available PCI slot.

Install the PCI card in the slot.

Make sure that the card is firmly seated and secure it.

6. Replace and secure the computer cover and turn on the computer only. If an error

occurs at bootup, either the PCI card was not installed properly or there is an address or interrupt conflict. Refer to Chapter 9 "Troubleshooting", page

121 for

instructions.

Note: The PCI card has no user-changeable jumpers or switches.

To Install the PCI Card Driver

The following information assumes that you have already installed the WinView/32 or WinSpec/32 software.

1. After y

ou have secured the PCI card in the computer and replaced the cover, turn

the computer on.

2. At bootup, Windows will try

to install the new hardware. If it cannot locate the driver, you will be prompted to enter the directory path, either by keyboard entry or by using the browse function.

If you selected AUTO PCI during the application software installation,

WinView/32 or WinSpec/32 autom

atically put the required INF file into the Windows/INF directory and put the PCI card driver file in the "Windows"/System32/ Drivers directory. Refer to nam

es and locations.

Windows

Version

Windows® 2000 and XP

Windows NT® N/A pi_pci.sys

Windows® 95, 98, and Windows

PCI INF Filename

Located in

"Windows"/INF

directory*

rspi.inf (in WINNT/INF, for example)

pii.inf pivxdpci.vxd

rspipci.sys (in WINNT/System32/Drivers, for example)

Table 2 for the appropriate file

PCI Device Driver Name

"Windows"/System32/Drivers

* The INF directory may be hidden.

Table 2. PCI Driver Files and Locations

Located in

Setting up a USB 2.0 Interface

Administrator privileges are required under Windows NT®, Windows® 2000, and Windows® XP to install software and hardware.

Your system has been configured to use the USB communication protocol if the Interface

Control Module

right). The advantages to the USB 2.0 interface are that it uses a much higher data transfer rate than many common serial data formats (such as the TAXI protocol) and it simplifies the connection to external devices. USB supports "plug and play" -- you do not need to be heavily involved in the setup process.

USB 2.0 Limitations

• Maxim

• 1 MHz is currently

Controller. Large data sets and/or long acquisition times may be subject to data overrun because of host computer interrupts during data acquisition.

installed in the ST-133 has a USB 2.0 connector as shown in the figure at

um cable length is 5 meters (16.4 feet)

the upper digitization rate limit for the ST-133

• USB 2.0 is not supported by

DLLS).

• Som

Note: If you are installing the USB 2.0 interface on a laptop, you will need to perform all of the operations described in this section. In addition, if you are using the recommended USB Interface Card (SIIG, Inc. USB 2.0 PC Card, Model US2246), you must replace the OrangeUSB USB 2.0 Host Controller driver installed for that card with the appropriate

Microsoft driver. Instructions for making the replacement are included in "To Update the

OrangeUSB USB 2.0 Driver".

To Update the OrangeUSB USB 2.0 Driver:

This procedure is highly recommended when a laptop computer will be used to com

municate with the ST-133. As stated before, we recommend the SIIG, Inc. USB 2.0 PC Card, Model US2246 if USB 2.0 is not native to the laptop's motherboard. To reduce the instances of data overruns and serial violations, the OrangeUSB USB 2.0 Host Controller installed for the SIIG card, should be replaced by the appropriate Microsoft driver (Windows 2000 or Windows XP, depending on the laptop's operating system.)

Note: This procedure may also be performed for desktop computers that use the Orange Micro 70USB90011 USB2.0 PCI.

1. Download and install Microsoft Service Pack 4 (for Windows 2000) or Service

e WinView and WinSpec 2.5.X features are not fully supported with

USB 2.0. Refer to Appendix E, page

Pack 1 (for Windows XP) if the service

the Princeton Instruments PC Interface Library (Easy

155, for more information.

pack has not been installed.

2. From

3. Select System and then System Properties.

4. Select the Hardware tab and click on Device Manager button.

5. Expand Universal Serial Bus Controllers

6. Right-m

the Windows Start menu, select Settings|Control Panel.

ouse click on OrangeUSB USB 2.0 Host Controller and select

Properties.

Page 33

Chapter 4 System Setup 33

7. On the Driver tab, click on the Update Driver… button. You may have to wait

a minute or so before you will be allowed to click on the button.

8. When the Upgrade Device Driver wizard appears, click on Next

. Select the

Search for a suitable driver … radio button.

9. On the next screen select the Specify a location

checkbox.

10. Browse and select the location. Click on OK.

11. In the Driver Files Search Results

window, check the Install one of the

other drivers check box.

12. Select the NEC PCI to USB Enhanced Host Controller B1 driver. Click on

and the installation will take place. When the Completing the Upgrade

Next Device Driver wizard window appears, click on Finish. You will then be

given the choice of restarting the computer now or later. According to the window text, the hardware associated with the driver will not work until you restart the computer.

To Install the Princeton Instruments USB2 Interface:

The following information assumes that:

• You have verified that the host computer meets the required specifications

for USB 2.0 communication with the MicroMAX system (see page

• A USB 2.0 board and its driver are installed in the host com

• The ST-133 has an installed USB 2.0 Interface Control m

• You have already

installed the WinX software (versions 2.5.15 and higher).

puter.

odule.

Versions 2.5.15 and higher automatically install the driver and INF files required to support the USB 2.0 Interface Control module.

29).

1. Before installing the Princeton Instruments USB2 Interface, we recommend

that you defragment the host computer's hard disk. This operation reduces the time the computer spends locating files. Typically, the "defrag" utility "Disk

Defragmenter" can be accessed from the Windows

Start menu and can

usually accessed from the Programs/Accessories/System Tools subdirectory.

2. After defragm

enting the hard disk, turn off the computer and make the USB cable connections between the host computer and the ST-133. Then, turn the ST-133 on before turning on the host computer.

3. At bootup, Windows will detect the Princeton Instrum

ents USB2 Interface hardware (i.e., the USB 2.0 Interface Control module). You may be prompted to enter the directory path(s) for the apausbprop.dll and/or the apausb.sys file(s), either by keyboard entry or by using the browse function.

If you selected AUTO PCI during the application software installation, WinX

atically put the required INF, DLL, and USB driver file in the

autom "Windows" directories shown below. Refer to the

Table 3 for the file

locations.

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34 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

Windows

Version

Located in

"Windows"/IN

F directory*

Windows

2000

and XP

rsusb2k.inf (in W

INNT/INF, for

example)

* The INF directory may be hidden.

Mounting the Camera

General

The MicroMAX camera can be mounted either horizontally or vertically (nose up or nose down). The camera can rest on any secure surface. For mounting flexibility, the round head camera is equipped with four standard ¼″ x 20 UNC threaded 3/8″ deep holes spaced at 90° intervals around the body; in some situations it may prove convenient to secure the camera with a suitable mounting bracket. An optional tripod mount is available for the rectangular head camera.

USB INF

Filename

Table 3. USB Driver Files and Locations

USB Properties DLL

Located in

"Windows"/System3

2 directory

apausbprop.dll (in W

INNT/System32, for

example)

USB Device Driver Name

Located in

"Windows"/System32/Driver

s directory

apausb.sys (in W

INNT/System32/Drivers, for

example)

WARNING

In the case of cameras equipped with F-mount, do not mount the camera in the nose-up

operation where the lens mount would be required to hold the camera’s weight. The F-mount is not designed to sustain the weight of the camera in this orientation and the

camera could pull free. Contact the factory for special mounting options that enable

operation in this orientation.

Should the camera be mounted in the nose-up position beneath a table, take care to protect the mounting components from lateral stresses, such as might occur should someone accidentally bump the camera with a knee while working at the table. Two possible approaches to this problem would be to install a securely mounted bracket to the camera or to install a barrier between the camera and operator so as to prevent any accidental contact.

There are no special constraints on nose-down operation. Again, however, good operating practice m

ight make it advisable to use a securing bracket to prevent accidental

contact from unduly stressing the mounting components.

If the camera is going to be mounted to a microscope, the lens mounting instructions that follow will not apply

discussion and instead review "Mounting to a Microscope", beginning on page

. Where this is the case, users are advised to skip the following

35.

Mounting the Lens

The MicroMAX camera is supplied with the lens mount specified when the system was ordered, normally either a screw-type C-mount lens or a bayonet type F-mount lens, allowing a lens of the corresponding type to be mounted quickly and easily.

C-mount lenses simply screw clockwise into the threaded lens mount at the front of the

era. In mounting a C-mount lens, tighten it securely by hand (no tools).

cam

Page 35

Chapter 4 System Setup 35

Note: C-mount cameras are shipped with a dust cover lens installed (identifiable by its red rim). Although this lens is capable of providing images, its throughput is low and the image quality is not as good as can be obtained with a high quality camera lens. You should replace the dust cover lens with your own high quality laboratory lens before making measurements.

To mount an F-mount lens on the camera, locate the large indicator dot on the side of the lens. There is a corresponding dot on the front side of the cam dots and slide the lens into the mount. Then turn the lens counterclockwise until a click is heard. The click means that the lens is now locked in place.

era lens mount. Line up the

Removing either type lens is equally simple. In the case of a C-m the lens counterclockwise until it is free of the mount. In the case of an F-mount lens, press the locking lever on the mount while rotating the lens clockwise until it comes free and can be pulled straight out.

Both types of lenses typically have provision for focusing and aperture adjustment, with the details vary the F-mount, there is provision for adjusting the focus of the lens mount itself, if

necessary, to bring the focus within range of the lens focus. See the discussion on

51 for more detailed information.

page

Mounting procedures are more complex when mounting to a microscope and vary according to the m

Microscope, which follows.

ing according the make and model of the lens. In addition, in the case of

ake and model of the microscope as discussed in Mounting to a

ount lens, simply rotate

Mounting to a Microscope

This section discusses the setup and optimization of your digital imaging system as applied to microscopy. Since scientific grade cooled CCD imaging systems are usually employed for low light level microscopy, the major goal is to maximize the light throughput to the camera. In order to do this, the highest Numerical Aperture (NA) objectives of the desired magnification should be used. In addition, you should carefully consider the transmission efficiency of the objective for the excitation and emission wavelengths of the fluorescent probe employed. Another way to maximize the transmission of light is to choose the camera port that uses the fewest optical surfaces in the pathway, since each surface results in a small loss in light throughput. Often the trinocular mount on the upright microscope and the bottom port on the inverted microscope provide the highest light throughput. Check with the manufacturer of your microscope to determine the optimal path for your experiment type.

A rule of thumb employed in live cell fluorescence microscopy is “if you can see the fluorescence by universally applicable, it is a reasonable goal to aim for. In doing this, the properties of the CCD in your camera should also be considered in the design of your experiments. For instance, if you have flexibility in choosing fluorescent probes, then you should take advantage of the higher Quantum Efficiency (QE) of the CCD at longer wavelengths (contact factory for current CCD specifications). Another feature to exploit is the high resolution offered by cameras with exceptionally small pixel sizes (6.7 µm for MicroMAX:1300Y, 1300YHS, and 1300YHS-DIF or 8.3µm for MicroMAX:782Y and 782YHS). Given that sufficient detail is preserved, you can use 2x2 binning (or higher) to increase the light collected at each “super-pixel” by a factor of 4 (or higher). This will

eye, then the illumination intensity is too high”. While this may not be

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36 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

allow the user to reduce exposure times, increasing temporal resolution and reducing photodamage to the living specimen.

Another method to minimize photodamage to biological preparations is to synchronize a shutter on the excitation pathway to the exposure exposure of the sample to the potentially damaging effects of the excitation light. Ti

nchronization are explained in Chapter 6.

and sy

The camera is connected to the microscope via a standard type mount coupled to a microscope specific adapter piece. There are two basic camera mounting designs, the C-mount and the F-mou camera to th make the connection.

e adapter while the F-mount uses a tongue and groove type mechanism to

nt. The C-mount employs a standard size thread to connect to the

period of the camera. This will limit

ing

C-Mount

For a camera equipped with a C-mount thread, use the standard C-mount adapter supplied by the microscope manufacturer to attach the camera to the microscope. The adapter can be screwed into the camera and then the assembly can be secured to the microscope using the standard setscrews on the microscope. The camera can be mounted on the trinocular output port, the side port, or the bottom port of the inverted microscope. When mountin the larger cameras perpendicular to the microscope on the side port, it is ADVISED that you provide some additional support for your camera to reduce the possibility of vibrations or excessive stress on the C-mount nose. For the bottom port of the inverted microscope, the C-mount is designed to support the full weight of the camera, however, IT IS ADVISED that you provide some additional support for the larger cameras since the camera is in a pos kind of lateral force could damage the alignm imaging conditions.

Most output ports of the microscope do not require additional optical elements to collect an image, however please check with your microscope manual to determine if the chosen output port requ and fingerp image quality.

F-Mount

For a camera with the F-mount type design, you will need two elements to mount the camera on your microscope. The first element is a Diagnostic Instruments Relay Lens. This lens is usually a 1X relay lens that performs no magnification. Alternatively, you may use a 0.6X relay lens to partially demagnify the image and to increase the field of view. There is also a 2X relay lens available for additional magnification. The second element is a microscope specific Diagnostic Instruments Bottom Clamp. shows which bottom clamps are routinely used with each of the microscope types. They are illustrated in Figure 8. If you feel that you have received the wrong type of clamp, of if y

ou need a clamp for a microscope other than those listed, please contact the factory.

ition where it could be deflected by

ent of the nose and result in sub-optimal

ires a relay lens. In addition, all optical surfaces should be free from dust

rints, since these will appear as blurry regions or spots and hence degrade the

the operator’s knee or foot. This

Table 4

To assemble the pieces, first pick up the camera and look for the black dot on the fron surface. Match this dot with the red dot on the side of the relay lens. Then engage the two surfaces and rotate them until the F-mount is secured as evidenced by a soft clicking sound. Next place the long tube of the relay lens into the bottom clamp for your microscope, securing it to the relay lens with the three setscrews at the top of the clamp as shown in

Figure

. This whole assembly can now be placed on the microscope, using

Page 37

Chapter 4 System Setup 37

the appropriate setscrews on the microscope to secure th ut port

e bottom clamp to the outp

of the microscope.

Microscope Type

Leica DMR L-clamp

Leitz All types NLW-clamp

Nikon Optiphot, Diaphot, Eclipse O-clamp

Olympus BH-2, B-MAX, IMT-2 V-clamp

Zeiss Axioscope, Axioplan, Axioplan 2, Axiophot Z-clamp

Zeiss Axiovert ZN-clamp

Table 4. Bottom Clamps for Different Microscopes

Diagnostic Instruments

Bottom Clamp Type

The F-mount is appropriate for any trinocular output port or any side port. When mounting the camera perpendicular to the microscope on the side port, it is ADVISED that you provide some additional support for your camera to reduce the possibility of vibrations or excessive stress on the F-mount nose. Princeton Instruments D

OES NOT advise using an F-mount to secure the camera to a bottom port of an inverted microscope due to possible failure of the locking m

echanism of the F-mount. Contact the factory for

information about a special adapter for operating in this configuration. Focusing information for a camera and a camera lens mount is included in the First Li

section of Chapter 5 (page the lens m adjustm

ount adjustment in operation with a m

ent would normally suffice), it could be used if necessary. The procedure for

51). Although it is unlikely that you would ever icroscope (the relay-lens focus

need to use

using the adjustment is provided in Chapter 5 and illustrated in Figure 18.

HRP 100-NIK

NLW

ght

Figure 8. Bottom Clamps

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38 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

HRP 100-NIK

"L" bottom clamp

Figure 9. Bottom Clamp secured to Relay Lens

Caution

Microscope optics have very high transmission efficiencies in the infrared region of the spectrum. Since typical microscope light sources are very good emitters in the infrared, some microscopes are equipped with IR blockers or heat filters to prevent heating of optical elements or the sample. For those microscopes that do not have the better IR blockers, the throughput of infrared light to the CCD can be fairly high. In addition, while the eye is unable to see the light, CCD cameras are particularly efficient in detecting infrared wavelengths. As a result, the contaminating infrared light will cause a degradation of the image quality due to a high background signal that will be invisible to the eye. Therefore, it is recommended that you add an IR blocker in the light path if you encounter this problem with the microscope.

Mounting to a Spectrometer

The camera must be properly mounted to the spectrometer to achieve maximum spectral resolution across the array. Depending on the spectrometer and camera type, special adapters may be required to mount the camera to the spectrometer. The appropriate adapters should have been included with your system if the spectrometer type was indicated when the system was ordered.

Because of the many possible camera and spectrom mounting instructions are located in Appendix D. Refer to the table at the beginning of that appendix to find the instruction set appropriate to your system.

eter combinations, all of the adapter

The distance to the focal plane from the front of the mechanical assembly depends on the specific configuration. Refer to the outline drawings in Appendix B for the focal plane distance inform

ation.

Page 39

Chapter 4 System Setup 39

Selecting the Shutter Setting

Caution

The Shutter Setting push switch on the rear of the Controller sets the shutter hold voltage. Each shutter type, internal or external, requires a different setting. Consult the table

below for the proper setting for your shutter. The Shutter Setting is correctly set at the

factory for the camera’s internal shutter if one is present.

Shutter Setting* Shutter Type

1 25 mm Princeton Instruments supplied External shutter

(typically an Entrance slit shutter)

2 25 mm Princeton Instruments Internal shutter

4 35 mm Princeton Instruments Internal shutter (requires 70

V Shutter option)

5 40 mm Princeton Instruments Internal shutter (supplied

with LN camera having a 1340 × 1300 or larger CCD)

* Shutter settings 0, 3, and 6-9 are unused and are reserved for future use.

Table 5. ST-133 Shutter Setting Selection

To Select the Shutter Setting:

1. Verify

that the Controller power is OFF.

2. Refer to Table 5 when looking at the rear of the

Controller.

3. If the setting is not correct, press the "-" or the "+"

button until the correct setting is display

ed in the

window.

SHUTTER CONTROL

REMOTE

Figure 10. Shutter Setting for

25 mm Internal Shutter

SETTING

Connecting the Interface (Controller-Computer) Cable

TAXI® Cable (6050-0148-CE)

Caution

Turn the Controller power OFF (OFF = 0, ON = |) and the Computer power OFF before connecting or disconnecting the Controller-Computer (TAXI) cable.

To Connect the TAXI Cable:

1. Verify

2. Verify

that the Controller power is OFF.

that the Computer power is OFF.

3. Connect one end of the TAXI cable to the 9-pin port on the Interface card in the

host com

puter.

4. Tighten down the screws to lock the connector in place.

5. Connect the other end of the cable to the "Serial Com

" port on the rear of the

Controller.

6. Tighten down the screws to lock the connector in place.

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40 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

USB 2.0 Cable (6050-0494)

Caution

Turn the Controller power OFF (OFF = 0, ON = |) and the Computer power OFF before connecting or disconnecting the Controller-Computer (TAXI) cable.

To Connect the USB 2.0 Cable:

1. Verify

2. Verify

3. Connect one end of the USB cable to the USB port on the host com

4. Connect the other end of the cable to the USB 2.0 port on the rear of the

that the Controller power is OFF.

that the Computer power is OFF.

puter.

Controller.

Connecting the Detector-Controller Cable

Caution

Turn the Controller power OFF (OFF = 0, ON = |) before connecting or disconnecting the Detector-Controller cable.

To Connect the Detector-Controller Cable:

1. Verify

2. Connect m

3. Move the slide latch over to lock the connector in place.

4. Connect the fem

5. Move the slide latch over to lock the connector in place.

that the Controller power is OFF.

ale end of the Detector-Controller cable to the “Detector” port on the back

of the Controller.

ale end of the cable to the Camera.

Entering the Default Camera System Parameters into WinX (WinView/32, WinSpec/32, or WinXTest/32)

Software changes implemented in WinX version 2.15.9.6 affected the way in which default parameters were entered for camera systems. Therefore, two sets of instructions are included. Follow the instructions appropriate to the software version that you installed. Note that these instructions assume that you have performed the computer interface installation.

WinX Versions 2.5.19.6 and later

1. Make sure the ST-133 is connected to the host com

2. Run the WinX application. The Camera Detection wiz

this is the first time you have installed a Princeton Instruments WinX application (WinView/32, WinSpec/32, or WinXTest/32) and a supported camera. Otherwise, if you installing a new camera type, click on the Launch Camera Detection Wizard… button on the Controller/CCD tab page to start the wizard.

3. On the Welcome

dialog (Figure 11), leave the checkbox unselected and click on

puter and that it is turned on.

ard will automatically run if

Page 41

Chapter 4 System Setup 41

Figure 11. Camera Detection Wizard - Welcome dialog box

4. Follow the instructions on the dialog boxes to perform the initial hardware setup: this

wizard enters default parameters on the Hardware Setup dialog box tab pages and gives you an opportunity to acquire a test image to confirm the system is working.

WinX Versions before 2.5.19.6: Run RSConfig.exe

1. Make sure the ST-133 is connected to the host com

Windows|Start|Programs|PI Acton menu or from the

2. Run RSConfig from

the

puter and that it is turned on.

directory where you installed WinView, WinSpec, or WinXTest.

3. When the RSConfig dialog box (Figure 12) appears, you can change the camera

nam

e to one that is more specific or you can keep the default name "Camera1".

When you have finished, click on the Done button.

Note: If the first camera in the list is not the "Princeton Style (USB2)", you will need to edit the PVCAM.INI file created by RSConfig. See the instructions in

"Demo, High Speed PCI, and PCI(Timer) are Choices on Hardware Wizard:Interface dialog (Versions 2.5.19.0 and earlier)", page 118.

Figure 12. RSConfig dialog box

4. Open the WinX application and, from Setup|Hardware…, run the Hardware

Setup wizard.

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42 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

5. When the PVCAM dialog box (Figure 13) is displayed, click in the Yes radio

button, click on finished, the

PVCAM

checkbox selected. You should now be able to set up experiments and

Next and continue through the wizard. After the wizard is

Controller/Camera tab card will be displayed with the Use

acquire data.

Figure 13. Hardware Setup wizard: PVCAM dialog box

6. Run the software in focus mode to verify communication between the ST-133

and the host computer.

Page 43

Chapter 5 Operation

Introduction

Once the MicroMAX camera has been installed, camera operation is basically straightforward. In most applications you simply establish optimum performance using the Focus mode (WinView/32 or WinSpec/32), set the target detector temperature, wait

until the temperature has stabilized at the set temperature (see the "Setting the Temperature" section in this chapter), and then do actual data acquisition in the

Acquire mode. Additional considerations regarding experiment setup and equipment configuration are addressed in the software manual.

During data acquisition, the CCD array is exposed to a source and charge accumulates in the pixels. After the defined exposure time, the accumulated signal is readout of the array, digitized, and then transferred to the host computer. Upon data transfer, the data is data is displayed and/or stored via the application software. This sequence is

Incoming photons

CCD

Preamp

Cable driver

Camera

Up/down integrator

Slow A/D

Digital processor

Interface module

TAXI or USB 2.0

Fast A/D

Controller

Computer

Video

display

illustrated by the block diagram shown in

Interface

Figure

14.

Whether or not the data is displayed and/or stored

Display Storage

board

RS PCI or USB 2.0

depends on the data collection operation (Focus or Acquire

software. In WinView and WinSpec, these operations

) that has been selected in the application

Figure 14. Block Diagram of

Light Path in System

use the Experiment Setup parameters to establish the exposure time (the period when signal of interest is allowed to accumulate on the CCD).

As might be inferred from the names, Focus is more likely to be used in setting up the system (see the "First Light" discussions) and Acquire is then used for the collection

and storage of data. Briefly:

• In Focus mode, the number of frames and accumulations settings are ignored. A

single frame is acquired and displayed, another frame is acquired and overwrites the currently displayed data, and so on until Stop is selected. Only the last frame acquired before Stop is selected can be stored. When Stop is selected, the File Save function can be used to save the currently displayed data. This mode is particularly convenient for familiarization and setting up. For ease in focusing, the screen refresh rate should be as rapid as possible, achieved by operating with axes and crosssections off, and with Zoom 1:1 selected.

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44 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

• In Acquire mode, every frame of data collected can be automatically stored (the

completed dataset may include multiple frames with one or more accumulations). This mode would ordinarily be selected during actual data collection. One limitation of Acquire mode operation is that if data acquisition continues at too fast a rate for it to be stored, data overflow will eventually occur. This could only happen in Fast Mode operation.

The remainder of this chapter is organized to first talk about the system on/off sequences.

Then "First Light" procedures for im

procedures provide step-by-step instruction on how to initially verify system operation. The last three sections discuss factors that affect exposure, readout, and digitization of the incoming signal. By understanding these factors and making adjustments to software settings you can maximize signal-to-noise ratio. For information about synchronizing

data acquisition with external devices, please refer to Chapter 6, Advanced Topics.

aging and spectroscopy applications follow: these

EMF and Xenon or Hg Arc Lamps

WARNING

USB 2.0 S

Before You Start, if your imaging system includes a microscope Xenon or Hg arc lamp, it is CRITICAL to turn off all electronics adjacent to the arc lamp, especially your

digital camera system and your computer hardware (monitors included) before turning on the lamp power.

Powering up a microscope Xenon or Hg arc lamp causes a large EMF spike to be produced that can cause damage to electronics that are running in the vicinity of the lam We advise that you place a clear warning sign on the power button of your arc lamp reminding all workers to follow this procedure. While Princeton Instruments has taken great care to isolate its sensitive circuitry from EMF sources, we cannot guarantee that

this protection will be sufficient for all EMF bursts. Therefore, in order

the performance of your system, you must

follow this startup sequence.

to fully guarantee

ystem On/Off Sequences

If your system is configured for the USB 2.0 communication interface, you must follow the system on/off sequences as stated below. These sequences ensure that is established and maintained between the camera and the host computer:

The MicroMAX camera must be powered ON before WinView/32 or WinSpec/32 is opened to ensure communication between the camera and the computer. If WinView or WinSpec is opened and the MicroMAX is not powered ON, many of the function will be disabled and you will only be able to retrieve and examine previously acquired and stored data. You must close WinView or WinSpec, power the camera ON, and re new data.

open WinView or WinSpec before you can set up experiments and acquire

communication

WinView/32 or WinSpec/32 must be closed before powering the camera OFF. If you power the camera OFF before closing WinView or WinSpec, the communication link with the camera will be broken. You can operate the program in a playback mode (i.e., examine previously acquired data) but will be unable to acquire new data until you have closed WinVie WinView or WinSpec.

w or WinSpec, powered the camera ON, and then re-opened

Page 45

Chapter 5 Operation 45

Imaging Field of View

When used for two-dimensional imaging applications, the MicroMAX camera closely imitates a standard 35 mm camera. Since the CCD is not the same size as the film plane of a 35 mm camera, the field of view at a given distance is somewhat different. The imaging field of view is indicated in

Figure 15.

D = distance between the object and the CCD

B = 46.5 mm for F-mount; 17.5 mm for C-mount

F = focal length of lens

S = CCD horizontal or vertical dimension

O = horizontal or vertical field of view covered at a distance D

M = magnification

The field of view is:

RS-170 or CCIR Video

Object

Figure 15. Imaging Field of View

CCD

Lens

One of the limitations of scientific non-video rate cameras has been their difficulty in focusing and locating fields of view. The MicroMAX solves this problem by its combination of high speed operation with the implementation of true video output. The high-speed image update on the video monitor (via the VIDEO BNC connector on the rear of the Controller) makes focusing and field location as simple as with a video camera. This video output also makes possible archiving an experiment on a VCR, producing hardcopy data on a video printer, or even implementing autofocusing stages.

Note: If more than one device is connected to the video output, the last device is the one

that should to be terminated in 75Ω. For example, to connect the video output to a VCR as well as to a monitor, the cable from the controller video output should be connected to the video input connector of the VCR, and another 75 Ω cable should extend from the

video output connector of the VCR to the 75Ω input of the monitor. Do not use a BNC

TEE to connect the controller video output to multiple devices.

The video output is selected by the Application software. In the case of a WinX application, this is done by

selecting Video from the Acquisition menu. There is also

provision in the WinX applications for intensity-scaling the video output, that is, selecting the specific gray levels to be displayed on the 8-bit video output.

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46 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

In addition to intensity-scaling, you also need to be concerned about how the array pixels map to the video display. The 756×486 resolution of a typical video monitor corresponds well with the array size of a MicroMAX:782Y, MicroMAX:782YHS or MicroMAX:512BFT

In the case of a MicroMAX:1300YHS or a MicroMAX:1300YHS-DIF, the number of

pixels far exceeds the number of monitor pixels and mapping must be considered

array more carefully. The WinX software’s Video Focus mode (accessed from the Acquisition Menu) provides a Pan function that allows any one of nine different subsets of the array image to be selected for viewing on the video monitor with only a singleframe delay. An associated zoom function provides 1x, 2x, or 4x viewing. At 1x, the entire array image is displayed, but at reduced resolution (pixels are discarded and fine detail could be lost). At 2x, the mapping is 1:1 and the image portion selected by the Pan function is provided. The regions overlap, allowing the entire array image to be examined with no loss of resolution. At 4x, array pixels are enlarged so that a smaller part of the array image is displayed as selected by the Pan function.

Once proper focus has been achieved, the user can transfer to norm

al data-acquisition operation. The video output remains operative, but with a more limited and fixed view because of the resolution limitation of RS-170 video. Although this view is sufficient to cover the image from a small CCD array in its entirety, it will not cover all the pixels from a large array. Instead, a subset from the center of the image will be shown. For example, in the case of the MicroMAX:1300YHS, the monitor would display the 756×486 area from the center of the CCD image as shown in

1300 × 1030

Figure 16.

756 × 486 RS-170

(EIA) monitor

image from center

of CCD image

Figure 16. Monitor Display of CCD Image Center Area

Note: With a 16-bit A/D converter (not a standard option), the composite video output is

disabled during data acquisition.

In post-acquisition processing the WinView/32 ROI (Region of Interest) capability allows any

portion of an acquired image to be displayed on the computer monitor.

Again, note that the described video output behavior applies specifically

for the WinView/32 software only. Other application software may provide different video output capabilities.

Page 47

Chapter 5 Operation 47

First Light (Imaging)

The following paragraphs provide step-by-step instructions for placing your MicroMAX system in operation the first time. The intent of this simple procedure is to help you gain basic familiarity with the operation of your system and to show that it is functioning properly. Once basic familiarity has been established, then operation with other operating configurations, ones with more complex timing modes, can be performed. An underlying assumption for the procedure is that the camera is to be operated with a microscope on

which it has been properly installed (see "

ounting instructions) and that a video monitor is available. Although it is possible to dispense with the monitor and simply view the images on the computer monitor’s screen, operations such as focusing may be easier with a video monitor because the displayed data is updated much more quickly and will be as close to current as possible.

Once the MicroMAX camera has been installed and its optics adjusted, operation of the

era is basically straightforward. In most applications you simply establish optimum

cam performance using the Focus mode (WinView/32), set the target camera temperature, wait until the temperature has stabilized, and then do actual data acquisition in the Acquire mode. Additional considerations regarding experiment setup and equipment configuration are addressed in the software manual.

Mounting to a Microscope", page 35, for

Detector-Controller

Camera

Detector

Microscope

EXPERIMENT

Figure 17. Standard System Connection Diagram

Assumptions

The following procedure assumes that

1. You have already

Chapter 4.

set up your system in accordance with the instructions in

Serial Com or USB 2.0

Controller

Interface cable

(TAXI or USB 2.0)

110/220

Computer

2. You have read the previous sections of this chapter.

3. You are fam

4. The sy

5. The sy

iliar with the application software.

stem is air-cooled.

stem is being operated in imaging mode.

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48 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

Cabling

If the system cables haven’t as yet been installed, make sure that the ST-133 and the host

computer are turned off and then make the cable connections as follows: See

1. Connect the 25-pin camera-to-controller cable from the DETECTOR connector on

the Analog/Control module panel to the mating connector at the back of the camera. Secure the cable at both ends with the slide-lock latch

2. Connect one end of the 9-pin serial cable to the SERIAL COM connector on the

Interface Control module panel. Connect the other end to the computer interface as described in Chapter 4. Be sure to secure both ends of the cable with the cableconnector screws.

Figure 17.

3. Connect a 75

the video monitor’s 75 Ω input. This cable must be terminated in 75 Ω. Many monitors have a switch for selecting the 75 Ω termination.

4. Connect the line cord from

a suitable source of AC power.

Ω BNC cable from the VIDEO connector on the back of the camera to

the Power Input assembly on the back of the controller to

Getting Started

1. If you haven’t already done so, install a lens on the camera. The initial lens settings

aren’t important but it may prove convenient to set the focus to approximately the anticipated distance and to begin with a small aperture setting. In the case of

operation with a microscope, review "Mounting to a Microscope", beginning on

35, and mount the camera on the microscope.

page

2. Turn on the sy

controller.

Note: The camera overload alarm may sound briefly and then stop. This is normal and is not a cause for concern. However, if the alarm sounds continuously, even with no light entering the camera, something is wrong. Turn off the power and contact the factory for guidance.

3. Turn on the power at the com

for example).

stem power. The Power On/Off switch is located on the front of the

puter and start the application software (WinView/32,

Setting the Parameters

Note: The following procedure is based on WinView/32: you will need to modify it if you are using a different application. Basic familiarity with the WinView/32 software is assumed. If this is not the case, you may want to review the software manual or have it available while performing this procedure.

Set the software parameters as follows:

Controller|Camera tab page (Setup|Hardware)

• Use PVCAM: 100 kHz or 1 MHz sy

2.5.19.0 and lower, verify that the box is checked if you are using the USB 2.0 interface.

Note: This check box is not present on software versions 2.5.19.6 and higher.

• Controller type:

ST-133

stems only. For software versions

Page 49

Chapter 5 Operation 49

• Controller version: 4 or higher

• Camera type:

MicroMAX:512FT = EEV 512×512 FT C MicroMAX:512BFT = EEV 512×512 FT C MicroMAX:782Y = PID 582×782 MicroMAX:782YHS = PID 582×782 MicroMAX:1024 = EEV 1024×1024 C MicroMAX:1024B = EEV 1024×1024 C MicroMAX:1024FT = EEV 1024×1024 C MicroMAX:1024BFT = EEV 1024×1024 C MicroMAX:1300Y = PID 1030× MicroMAX:1300YHS = PID 1030× MicroMAX:1300YHS-DIF = PID 1030×

• Shutter type: None or Rem

• Readout mode: Full fram

Detector Temperature (Setup|Detector Temperature…): -15°

round camera heads or -45°C for rectangular camera heads. The temperature should drop steadily, reaching the set temperature in about ten minutes (typical). At that point the green Temp Lock LED on the rear of the ST-133 will light and there will be a locked indication at the computer monitor, indicating that temperature lock has been established. Note that some overshoot may occur. This could cause temperature lock to be briefly lost and then quickly re-established. If you are reading the actual temperature reported by the application software, there may be a small difference between the set and reported temperature when lock is established. This is normal and does not indicate a system malfunction. Once lock is established, the temperature will be stable to within ±0.05°C.

Select array installed in your camera.

CD57

CD47_10

CD47_20

1300

ote.

e, Interline or DIF depending on array type.

C for

Note: If you are using the USB 2.0 interface, the Detector Temperature dialog box will not display temperature information while you are acquiring data.

Interface tab page (Setup|Hardware): High Speed PCI (or PCI(Timer))

Note: This tab page is not available if you are using the USB 2.0 interface.

Cleans and Skips tab page (Setup|Hardware): Default

Experiment Setup Main tab page (Acquisition|Experiment Setup…):

• Exposure Time: 100 m

• Accumulations & Number of Images:

Experiment Setup ROI tab page (Acquisition|Experiment Setup…):

Use this function to define the region of interest (ROI).

• Imaging Mode: Selected if y

• Clicking on Full loads the full size of the chip into the edit boxes.

• Clicking on Store will store the Pattern so it can be reused at another

tim

ou are using WinSpec/32.

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50 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

Experiment Setup Timing tab page (Acquisition|Experiment Setup…):

• Timing Mode: Free Run

• Shutter Control: Norm

• Safe Mode vs. Fast Mode: Safe

Acquisition Menu: Select

Video if you have connected an RS-170 (or a CCIR)

video monitor to the system and plan to use it for focusing or other operations. There will be a check next to “

Video” to indicate that it is selected

Focusing

1. If you are using WinView/32 (or WinSpec/32 in Imaging Mode) and the computer

monitor for focusing, select present, will open and successive images will be sent to the monitor as quickly as they are acquired. Because the time to acquire and read out an image varies directly with the size of the CCD, the observed frame rate will vary greatly depending on the CCD installed. With a short exposure time, it is not uncommon for the frame readout time to be significantly longer than the exposure time.

Note: If you are using WinView/32 (or WinSpec/32 in Imaging Mode) and a video monitor for focusing, select the Video Focus… mode from the Acquisition menu. Then select a short exposure time (0.1 s), an Intensity Scaling setting of 4096, and 2x Zoom. With an MicroMAX:1300Y camera (1030×1300 pixels), set the Pan selector as required for the 756×486 subset of the array image you wish to use for focusing purposes. Select the center pan position if the camera is a MicroMAX:782Y (782×582 pixels) or a MicroMAX:512BFT (512×512 pixels). Begin data collection

by selecting RUN on the Interactive Camera Operation dialog box. The shutter, if

present, will open and successive images will be sent to the monitor as quickly as they are acquired, giving as close to continuous video as possible.

Focus from the Acquisition menu. The shutter, if

2. Adjust the lens aperture, intensity

scaling, and focus for the best image as viewed on

the monitor. Some imaging tips follow.

a. Begin with the lens blocked off. Set the lens at the sm

allest possible aperture

(largest f-stop number).

b. Place a suitable target in front of the lens. An object with text or graphics works

best. If working with a m

icroscope, use any easily viewed specimen. It is

generally not advisable to attempt fluorescence imaging during this Getting Started phase of operation.

c. Adjust the intensity

scaling and lens aperture until a suitable setting is found. The initial intensity scaling setting of 4096 assures that the image won’t be missed altogether but could be dim. Once you’ve determined that the image is present, select a lower setting for better contrast. Check the brightest regions of the image

to determine if the A/D converter is at full-scale. The A/D converter is at full- scale when any part of the image is as bright as it can be. Adjust the aperture to

where it is just slightly smaller (higher f stop) than the setting where maximum brightness on any part of the image occurs.

Page 51

Chapter 5 Operation 51

d. Set the focus adjustment of the lens for maximum sharpness in the viewed image.

If the camera is mounted to a microscope, first be sure to have a clear, focused image through the eyepiece. T illuminating light intensity.

hen divert the light to the camera and lower the

To adjust the parfocality on an F-mount system, begin collecting images wit

a short exposure time and focus the light on the camera by rotating the ring on the Diagnostic Instrume knobs on the microscope.

o is normally

In the case of a camera with an F-mount lens adapter, focusing

nts relay lens without touching the main focusing

done by means a focus adjustment on the relay-lens adapter.

o ugh

On a C-m some C-mounts will be adjustable using setscrews on th

ount system, the camera should be very close to parfocal, altho

e microscope to

secure the adapter slightly higher or lower in position.

In the case of a cam

era with an F-mount, the adapter itself also has a focus adjustment. If necessary, this focus can be changed to bring the image into ra of the lens focus adjustment. The lens-mount adjustment is secured by four setscrews as shown in Figure 18. To change the focus setting, proceed as follows.

o the screws;

Loosen the setscrews with a 0.050" Allen wrench. Do not rem loosen them just enough to allow the lens mount to be adjusted.

Rotate the lens mou

focus adjustment.

Tighten the setscrews loosened above.

nt as required to bring the focus within range of the lens

Set screws to lock front part of adapter in place

ove

nge

Lens release lever

Front part of adapter

for adjusting focus

Figure 18. F-mount Focus Adjustment

Acquiring Data

Once optimum focus and aperture have been achieved, you can switch from Focus

Video Focus

Experiment Setup dialog box. (In WinView/32, you might wan

(Safe Mode) operation while gaining basic system familiarity.)

This com as described, you can be reasonably sure it has arrived in good working order. In

) mode to standard data-acquisition operation as determined via the

t to begin with Free Run

pletes First Light for imaging applications. If the MicroMAX system functio

(or

ned

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52 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

addition, you should have a basic understanding of how the system hardware is used. Other topics, which could be quite important in certain situations, are discussed in the following chapters. See the appropriate ap using the software to control the system.

plication software m

anual for information on

First Light

(Spectroscopy)

The following paragraphs provide step-by-step instructions for placing your spectroscopy system in operation the first time. The intent of this simple procedure is to help you g basic familiarity with the operation of your system and to show that it is functioning properly. Once basic familiarity has been established, then operation with other operating configurations, ones with more complex timing modes, can be performed. An underlying assumption for the procedure is that the detector is to be operated with a spectrograph s

™

as the Acton SpectraPro suitable light source, such as a mercury pen-ray lamp, should be mounted in front of the

entrance slit of the spectrograph. Any light source with line output can be used. Standa fluorescent overhead lamps have good calibration lines as well. If there are no “lin

sources available, it is possible to use a broadband source such as tungsten for the alignment. If this is the case, use a wavelength setting of 0.0 nm for alignment purposes.

2300i (SP2300i) on which it has been properly installed. A

Assumptions

The following procedure assumes that

You have a

1. lready set up your system in accordance with the instructions in

Chapter 4.

2. You have read the previous sections of this chap

3. You are fam

4. The sy

5. The sy

6. An entrance slit shutter is not being controlled by the ST-133.

iliar with the a

stem is air-cooled.

stem is being operated in spectroscopy mode.

pplication software.

ter.

ain

uch

e”

Cabling

If the system cables haven’t as yet been installed, make sure that the ST-133 and the host computer a this page.

re turned off and then follow the cabling instructions on page 48. Then, return to

Getting Started

1. Set the spectrometer entrance sl

Turn on the controller power.

Note: A detector overload alarm may sound briefly and then stop. This is normal and is not a cause for concern. However, if the alarm sounds continuously, even with no light entering the detector, something is wrong. Turn off the power and contact the factory for guidance.

3. Turn on the com

4. Start the application software.

puter power.

it width to minimum (10 µm if possible).

Page 53

Chapter 5 Operation 53

Setting the Parameters

Note: The following procedure is based on WinSpec/32: you will need to modify it if you are using a different application. Basic familiarity with the WinSpec/32 software is assumed. If this is not the case, you may want to review the software manual or have it available while performing this procedure.

Set the software parameters as follows:

Environment dialog (Setup|Environment): Verify

size is 8 Mbytes (min.). Large arrays may require a larger buffer size. If you

change the buffer size, you will have to reboot the computer for this memory

allocation to be activated, and then restart WinSpec.

Controller|Camera tab page (Setup|Hardware): Controller and Detector

eters should be set automatically to the proper values for your system.

param However, you can click on the this tab page to load the default settings.

• Use PVCAM: 100 kHz or 1 MHz sy

2.5.19.0 and lower, verify that the box is checked if you are using the USB 2.0 interface.

Note: This check box is not present on software versions 2.5.19.6 and higher.

• Controller type:

• Controller version:

• Camera type:

• Shutter type: None or Rem

ST-133

Select the array installed in your detector.

Load Defaults From Controller button on

stems only. For software versions

3 or higher

1300

ote.

that the DMA Buffer

CD57

CD47_10

CD47_20

• Readout mode: Full fram

Detector Temperature (Setup|Detector Temperature…): -15°

round camera heads or -45°C for rectangular camera heads. When the array temperature reaches the set temperature, the green Temp Lock LED on the rear of the ST-133 will light and there will be a locked indication at the computer monitor. Note that some overshoot may occur. This could cause temperature lock to be briefly lost and then quickly re-established. If you are reading the actual temperature reported by the application software, there may be a small difference between the set and reported temperature when lock is established. This is normal and does not indicate a system

C for

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54 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

malfunction. Once lock is established, the temperature will be stable to within ±0.05°C.

Note: If you are using the USB 2.0 interface, the Detector Temperature dialog box will not display temperature information while you are acquiring data.

Interface tab page (Setup|Hardware): High Speed PCI (or PCI(Tim

Note: This tab page is not available if you are using the USB 2.0 interface.

Cleans and Skips tab page (Setup|Hardware): Default

Experiment Setup Main tab page (Acquisition|Experiment Setup…):

• Exposure Time: 100 m

• Accumulations & Number of Images:

Experiment Setup ROI tab page (Acquisition|Experiment Setup…):

Use this function to define the region of interest (ROI).

• Spectroscopy Mode: Selected

• Clicking on Full loads the full size of the chip into the edit boxes.

Experiment Setup Timing tab page (Acquisition|Experiment Setup…):

• Timing Mode: Free Run

• Shutter Control: Normal

• Safe Mode vs. Fast Mode: Safe

er))

Focusing

The mounting hardware provides two degrees of freedom, focus and rotation. In this context, focus means to physically move the detector back and forth through the focal plane of the spectrograph. The approach taken is to slowly move the detector in and out of focus and adjust for optimum while watching a live display on the monitor, followed by rotating the detector and again adjusting for optimum. The following procedure, which describes the focusing operation with an Acton 2300I spectrograph, can be easily adapted to other spectrographs.

1. Mount a light source such as a m

the spectrograph. Any light source with line output can be used. Standard fluorescent overhead lamps have good calibration lines as well. If there are no “line” sources

available, it is possible to use a broadband source such as tungsten for the alignment. If this is the case, use a wavelength setting of 0.0 nm for alignment purposes.

2. With the spectrograph properly

for the spectrograph to initialize. Then set it to 435.8 nm if using a mercury lamp or to 0.0 nm if using a broadband source.

Hint: Overhead fluorescent lights produce a mercury spectrum. Use a white card tilted at 45 degrees in front of the entrance slit to reflect overhead light into the spectrograph. Select 435.833 as the spectral line.

3. Set the slit to 25 µm

(near full-scale) signal intensity.

. If necessary, adjust the Exposure Time to maintain optimum

ercury pen-ray type in front of the entrance slit of

connected to the controller, turn the power on, wait

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Chapter 5 Operation 55

4. Slowly move the detector in and out of focus. You should see the spectral line go

from broad to narrow and back to broad. Leave the detector set for the narrowest

achievable line. You may want to use the Focus Helper function (Process|Focus

Helper…) to determine the narrowest line width: it can automatically locate peaks and generate a report on peak characteristics during live data acquisition (see the WinSpec/32 on-line help for more information).

Note that the way focusing is accomplished depends on the spectrograph, as follows:

• Long focal-length spectrographs such as the Acton 2300i: The

mounting adapter includes a tube that slides inside another tube to move the detector in or out as required to achieve optimum focus.

• Short focal-length spectrographs: There is generally

mechanism on the spectrograph itself which, when adjusted, will move the optics as required to achieve proper focus.

• No focusing adjustment: If there is no focusing adjustm

provided by the spectrograph or by the mounting hardware, then the only recourse will be to adjust the spectrograph’s focusing mirror.

5. Next adjust the rotation. You can do this by

live display of the line. The line will go from broad to narrow and back to broad. Leave the detector rotation set for the narrowest achievable line.

Alternatively, take an image, display the horizontal and vertical cursor bars, and

pare the vertical bar to the line shape on the screen. Rotate the detector until the

com line shape on the screen is parallel with the vertical bar.

Note: When aligning other accessories, such as fibers, lenses, optical fiber adapters, first align the spectrograph to the slit. Then align the accessory without disturbing the detector position. The procedure is identical to that used to focus the spectrograph (i.e., do the focus and alignment operations while watching a live image).

rotating the detector while watching a

a focusing

ent, either

Acquiring Data

Once optimum focus and aperture have been achieved, you can switch from Focus (or

Video Focus) mode to standard data-acquisition operation as determined via the

Experiment Setup dialog box. (In WinSpec/32, you might want to begin with Free Run

(Safe Mode) operation while gaining basic system familiarity.)

This completes First Light for spectroscopy

functioned as described, you can be reasonably sure it has arrived in good working order. In addition, you should have a basic understanding of how the system hardware is used. Other topics, which could be quite important in certain situations, are discussed in the following chapters. See the appropriate application software manual for information on using the software to control the system.

Exposure and Signal

Introduction

The following topics address factors that can affect the signal acquired on the CCD array. These factors include array architecture, exposure time, CCD temperature, dark charge, and saturation.

applications. If the MicroMAX system

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56 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

CCD Array Architecture

Charge coupled devices can be roughly thought of as a two-dimensional grid of individual photodiodes (called pixels), each connected to its own charge storage “well.” Each pixel senses the intensity of light falling on its collection area, and stores a proportional amount of charge in its associated “well”. Once charge accumulates for the specified exposure time, the charge in the image pixels are moved to a different location. Depending on the CCD array type, the pixels are read out to a serial register or they are shifted under a masked area (or into storage cells) and then read out to a serial register.

CCD arrays perform three essential functions: photons are transduced to electrons, integrated and stored, and finally Unintensified, uncoated CCDs can withstand direct exposure to relatively high light levels, magnetic fields and RF radiation. They are easily cooled and can be precisely temperature controlled to within a few tens of millidegrees.

Because CCD arrays, like film and other media, are always sensitive to light, light must not be allowed to fall on the array MicroMAX use a mechanical shutter to prevent light from reaching the CCD during readout. The software allows you to set the length of time the camera is allowed to integrate the incoming light. This is called the exposure time. During each scan, the shutter is enabled for the duration of the exposure period, allowing the pixels to register light.

read out. CCDs are very compact and rugged.

during readout. Unintensified full-frame CCD cameras like the

Exposure Time

Exposure time (set on the Experiment Setup|Main tab page) is the time between start and stop acquisition commands sent by the application software to the camera. In combination with triggers, these commands control when continuous cleaning of the CCD stops and when the accumulated signal will be read out. The continuous cleaning prevents buildup of dark current and unwanted signal before the start of the exposure time. At the end of the exposure time, the CCD is read out and cleaning starts again.

Exposure with a Mechanical Shutter

For some CCD arrays, the MicroMAX uses a mechanical shutter to control exposure of the CCD. The diagram in period is m Analog/Control panel can be used to monitor the exposure and readout cycle (t signal is also shown in configured automatically for MicroMAX systems shipped with an internal shutter.

Figure 19 shows how the exposure

easured. The NOT SCAN signal at the

Figure 19. The value of t

BNC on the ST-133

). This

is shutter type dependent, and will be

Page 57

Chapter 5 Operation 57

Mechanical Shutter

NOT SCAN

Acquire Readout

exp

Exposure time

Figure 19. CCD Exposure with Shutter Compensation

Shutter compensation

ClosedOpen

Note that NOT SCAN is low during readout, high during exposure, and high during shutter compensation time.

Since most shutters behave like an iris, the opening and closing of the shutter will cause the center of the CCD to be exposed slightly

longer than the edges. It is important to

realize this physical limitation, particularly when using short exposures.

Exposure with an Interline Array

Interline transfer CCDs contain alternate columns of imaging and storage cells that work in pairs. Light impinging on the imaging cells cause a charge buildup. As previously explained, the operating mode is always overlapped unless the exposure time is shorter than the readout time, in which case non-overlapped operation is automatically selected.

Note: The storage cells of an interline array are quite light-insensitive (the ratio of the light sensitivity of the storage cells, which are masked, to the light sensitivity of the imaging cells is ~4000:1). However, even with a rejection ratio of ~4000:1, there may be situations where this may not be sufficient to prevent light leakage from significantly affecting the data. That this is so becomes apparent when the on/off time factors are considered. In an experiment with a very short exposure compared to the readout rate, the ratio of the readout time to the exposure time may easily be of the same order as the rejection ratio of the interline array storage cells. Where this is the case, the signal buildup in the storage cells during the readout time may equal the signal transferred from the imaging cells to the storage cells at the end of the exposure time. The effect of this signal will be to cause data smearing. The only solutions to this problem at this time are to increase the exposure time to where the effect is insignificant, use a shutter, or to use a gated light source.

Continuous Exposure (no shuttering)

Unlike video rate CCD cameras, slow scan scientific cameras require a shutter to prevent “smearing” of features during readout or transfer to a masked area or storage cells. Smearing occurs during readout because charge is moved horizontally or vertically across the surface of the CCD while charge continues to accumulate on the array. As the result, the image will be blurred along one direction only.

The fraction of total signal due to smearing is the ratio of the amount of time spent shifting divided by exposure times will minimize this effect. Note that while 1% smear is insignificant in an 8-bit camera (256 gray levels), in a 12-bit camera (over 4,000 gray levels) 1% smearing is over 40 counts, enough to obscure faint features in a high dynamic range image.

the exposure time between frames. Faster shifting and/or longer

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58 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

Full-Frame

For full-frame CCDs, the MicroMAX camera is usually If a full-frame MicroMAX is being operated without a shutter, smearing can be avoided by ensuring that no light falls on the CCD during readout. If the light source can be controlled electronically via the NOT SCAN or SHUTTER signal at the CCD can be read out in darkness.

equipped with an integral shutter.

BNC, the

Frame Transfer

For frame transfer CCDs, image smearing may occur, depending on the exact nature of the experim case of lens-coupled intensified cameras (ICCDs), this effect can be eliminated by using a fast phosphor and gating the intensifier at the same frame rate as the CCD.

Interline

For interline CCDs, image smearing may occur due to a small amount of light leaking through to the storage cells during the readout tim intensified cameras (ICCDs), this effect can be eliminated by using a fast phosphor and gating the intensifier at the same frame rate as the CCD.

ent. Smearing occurs only if the CCD is illuminated during shifting. In the

e. In the case of lens-coupled

Cooling the CCD

Most MicroMAX cameras must be cooled during operation. A Peltier-effect thermoelectric cooler, driven by closed-loop proportional-control circuitry, cools the CCD. A thermal sensing diode attached to the cooling block of the camera monitors its temperature. Heat generated at the exhaust plate of the cooler is conducted to the enclosure of the camera. Fins on the round head camera shell radiate the heat outward to the surrounding atmosphere. The fan inside the rectangular head camera draws air through the vents in the camera shell, blows it through the internal fins, and exhausts it back into the atmosphere through the vents.

Note: Temperature regulation does not reach its ultimate stability for at least 30 minutes after temperature lock is established.

Cautions

The MicroMAX camera requires the ST-133 Controller that has been shipped with it. Do not use a controller for a TE-cooled system with an LN-cooled camera. Do not use a controller for an LN-cooled system with a TE-cooled camera.

CCD Temperature Control

As stated before, lowering the temperature of the CCD will generally enhance the quality of the acquired signal. When WinView or WinSpec is the controlling software, temperature control is done via the (see Figure 20) accessed from the Setup Once the target array temperature has been set, the software controls the circuits in the camera so the array temperature is reduced to the set value. On reaching that temperature, the control loop locks to that temperature for stable and reproducible performance.

When temperature lock has been reached (temperature within 0.25°C of set value) the Detector Temperature dialog box reports that the current temperature is

Detector Temperature dialog box

menu.

Figure 20. WinView/WinSpec

Detector Temperature dialog box

Locked. This

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Chapter 5 Operation 59

on-screen indication allows easy verification of temperature lock. In addition, the TEMP LOCK indicator on the back of the controller lights GREEN to indicate that lock has been achieved (for more information, refer to the description of the ST-133 rear panel features, page

The deepest operating temperature for a system depends on the CCD array size, the CCD packaging, the am achieve lock can vary over a considerable range, depending on such factors as the camera type, CCD array type, ambient temperature, etc. Typically, the larger the array or the warmer the ambient temperature, the longer the time to reach lock. Once lock occurs, it is okay to begin focusing. However, you should wait an additional twenty minutes before taking quantitative data so that the system has time to achieve optimum thermal stability.

MicroMAX CCDs typically have the following temperature ranges:

20).

bient temperature, and the type of cooling. The time required to

• Better than -15°C with passive cooling and under vacuum

• Better than -30°C with the optional forced air accessory

Note: If you are using the USB 2.0 interface, the Detector Temperature dialog box will not display temperature information while you are acquiring data.

and under vacuum

ADC Offset (Bias)

With the camera completely blocked, the CCD will collect a dark charge pattern, dependent on the exposure time and camera temperature. The longer the exposure time and the warmer the camera, the larger and less uniform this background will appear. This background can be dealt with in a couple of ways: background subtraction, in which a background image is acquired and then subtracted from an illuminated image, or by offsetting the baseline so that much of the background is ignored during analog-to-digital conversion (ADC).

The baseline offset is a voltage that is added to the signal to bring the A/D output to a non-zero value, ty variation in the signal can really be seen and not lost below the A/D “0” value. Since the offset is added to the signal, these counts only minimally reduce the range of the signal from 65535 (16-bit ADC) to a value in the range of 50-100 counts lower.

Notes:

1. Do not be concerned about either the DC level of this background or its shape unless

it is very high (i.e., 400 counts). What you see is not noise. It is a fully subtractable readout pattern. Each CCD has its own dark charge pattern, unique to that particular device. Every device has been thoroughly tested to ensure its compliance with Princeton Instruments' demanding specifications.

pically 50-100 counts. This offset value ensures that all the true

2. The baseline can be adjusted by using the F and S Zero pots located on the rear panel

of the controller. If these pots are not present, the baseline may be softwareadjustable.

3. Do not adjust the offset values to zero or some low-level data will be missed.

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60 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

Caution

If you observe a sudden change in the baseline signal you may have excessive humidity in the vacuum enclosure of the camera. Turn off the controller and have the camera

repumped before resuming normal operation. Contact the factory Technical Support

Dept. for information on how to refresh the vacuum. See page 164 for contact information.

Dark Charge

Dark charge (or dark current) is the thermally induced buildup of charge in the CCD over time. The statistical noise associated with this charge is known as dark noise. Dark charge values vary widely from one CCD array to another and are exponentially temperature dependent. At the typical operating temperature of a round head camera, for example, dark charge is reduced by a factor of ~2 for every 6º reduction in temperature.

With the light into the camera completely blocked, the CCD will collect a dark charge pattern, dependent on the exposure tim exposure time and the warmer the camera, the larger and less uniform this background will appear. Thus, to minimize dark-charge effects, you should operate with the lowest CCD temperature possible.

Note: Do not be concerned about either the DC level of this background or its shape unless it is very high, i.e., > 1000 counts. What you see is not noise. It is a fully subtractable readout pattern. Each CCD has its own dark charge pattern, unique to that particular device. Simply acquire and save a dark charge “background image” under conditions identical to those used to acquire the “actual” image. Subtracting the background image from the actual image will significantly reduce dark-charge effects.

e and camera temperature. The longer the

Caution

Readout

If you observe a sudden change in the baseline signal, y in the camera's vacuum enclosure. Immediately turn off the system and contact Princeton

Instruments Customer Support for instructions. See page 164 for contact information.

ou may have excessive humidity

Saturation

When signal levels in some part of the image are very high, charge generated in one pixel may exceed the “well capacity” of the pixel, spilling over into adjacent pixels in a process called “blooming.” In this case a more frequent readout is advisable, with signal averaging to enhance S/N (Signal-to-Noise ratio) accomplished through the software.

For signal levels low enough to be readout-noise lim therefore longer signal accumulation in the CCD, will improve the S/N ratio approximately linearly with the length of exposure time. There is, however, a maximum time limit for on-chip averaging, determined by either the saturation of the CCD by the signal or the loss of dynamic range due to the buildup of dark charge in the pixels.

ited, longer exposure times, and

Introduction

After the exposure time has elapsed, the charge accumulated in the array pixels needs to be read out of the array, converted from electrons to digital format, and transmitted to the application software where it can be displayed and/or stored. Readout begins by moving charge from the CCD image area to the shift register or to a masked area (or storage cells) and then toward the shift register. The charge in the shift register pixels, which typically have twice the capacity of the image pixels, is then shifted into the output node and then

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Chapter 5 Operation 61

to the output amplifier where the electrons are grouped as electrons/count. This result leaves the CCD and goes to the preamplifier where gain is applied.

WinView and WinSpec allow you to specify the type of readout, binning, the output am

plifier, and the gain (the number of electrons required to generate an ADU).

Note: The type of readout (full frame, frame transfer, or interline) depends on the CCD array installed in the camera.

The upper left drawing in Figure 21 represents a CCD after exposure but before the beginning of readout. The capital letters repr

esent different amounts of charge, including both signal and dark charge. This section explains readout at full resolution, where every pixel is digitized separately.

Empty Readout Register Readout Register with charge

from first line.

A1 B1 C1 D1

B1C2C1D2D1

A2A1B2

A4A3B4B3C4C3D4

C5D6D5

A6A5B6

Charge from first cell shifted into Output Node.

A2A1B2B1C2C1D2

A4A3B4B3C4C3D4

A5 B5 C5 D5 A5 B5 C5 D5

A6 B6

Figure 21. Full Frame at Full Resolution

A2 B2 C2 D2

A4A3B4B3C4C3D4

A5 B5 C5 D5

A6 B6

After first line is read out,next line

can be shifted into empty Readout Register.

A2 B2 C2 D2

A4A3B4B3C4C3D4

A6 B6

Readout of the CCD begins with the simultaneous shifting of all pixels one row toward the "shift register", in this case the row at top. The shift register is a single line of pixels along one edge of the CCD, not sensitive to light and used for readout only. Typically the shift register pixels hold twice as much charge as the pixels in the imaging area of the CCD.

After the first row is moved into the shift register, the charge now in the shift register is shifted toward the output node, located at one end of the shift register. As each value is

ptied" into this node it is digitized. Only after all pixels in the first row are digitized is

"em the second row moved into the shift register. The order of shifting in our example is

therefore A1, B1, C1, D1, A2, B2, C2, D2, A3....

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62 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

After charge is shifted out of each pixel the remaining charge is zero, meaning that the array is immediately ready for the next exposure.

Below are the equations that determine the rate at which the CCD is read out. Tables of values for CCDs supported at the tim

e of the printing of this manual also appear below.

The time needed to take a full frame at full resolution is:

+ t

exp

+ t

(1)

where

is the CCD readout time,

is the exposure time, and

exp

is the shutter compensation time.

The readout time is approximately given by:

= [Nx · Ny · (tsr + tv)] + (Nx · ti) (2)

where

Nx is the smaller dimension of the CCD

Ny is the larger dimension of the CCD

tsr is the time needed to shift one pixel out of the shift register

tv is the time needed to digitize a pixel

ti is the time needed to shift one line into the shift register

(ts, the time needed to discard a pixel, appears below and in later equations)

The readout time for a 1024x1024 full-frame CCD array is provided in Table 6 below.

CCD Array 1 MHz Readout Time

MicroMAX:1024B

1.1 sec. for full frame

EEV CCD47-10 1024x1024

Table 6. Approximate Readout Time for the Full-Frame CCD Array

A subsection of the CCD can be read out at full resolution, sometimes dramatically increasing the readout rate while retaining the highest resolution in the region of interest (ROI). To approximate the readout rate of an ROI, in Equation 2 substitute the x and y dimensions of the ROI in place of the dimensions of the full CCD. Some overhead time, however, is required to read out and discard the unwanted pixels.

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Chapter 5 Operation 63

Frame Transfer

The MicroMAX fully supports frame transfer readout. Operation in this mode is very similar to the operation of video rate cameras. Half of the CCD is exposed continuously, raising the exposure duty cycle to nearly 100%. The other half of the CCD is masked to prevent exposure, and it is here that the image is “stored” until it can be read out. shows the readout of a m

asked version of our sample 4 × 6 CCD. The shading represents

the masked area (masking is on the array).

Charge accumulates in unmasked cells during exposure.

Accumulated charge in exposed cells is quickly transferred under mask.

Charge from cells A1-D1 shifted to serial register. Exposed cells accumulate new charge.

Figure 22

B1C2C1D2D1

A2A1B2

A3 B3 C3 D3

A4 B4 C4 D4

A5 B5 C5 D5

A6 B6

A3 B3 C3 D3

A4 B4 C4 D4

A5 B5 C5 D5

A6 B6

B1C2C1D2D1

A2A1B2

A3 B3 C3 D3

Charges in serial register shift into Output Node, emptying the register so the next line can be transferred in.

B1 C1 D1

C2 D2

A2A1B2

A3 B3 C3 D3

A4 B4 C4 D4

A5 B5 C5 D5

A6 B6

B1C2C1D2D1

A2A1B2

A3 B3 C3 D3

Shifting continues until all masked

data has been shifted into serial register and from there to the Output Node.

C3 D3

A3 B3 C3 D3

A4 B4 C4 D4

A5 B5 C5 D5

A6 B6

All data from first exposure has been shifted out. Second exposure continues. Initial conditions are restored.

Figure 22. Frame Transfer Readout

Only the exposed region collects charge. At the end of the exposure, the charge is quickly shifted into the masked region. Since the shifting is accomplished in a short time, i.e., a few milliseconds, the incident light causes only minimal “smearing” of the signal. While the exposed region continues collecting data, the masked region is read out and digitized. The percentage of smearing can be determined by dividing the time needed to shift all rows from the imaging area by the exposure time. See the equation below.

(3)

CCD Array 1 MHz Readout Time

MicroMAX:512BFT

0.35 sec. for full frame

EEV CCD57-10 512 x 512

Table 7. Approximate Readout Time for the Frame-Transfer CCD Array

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64 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

Interline

In this section, a simple 6 × 3 pixel interline CCD is used to demonstrate how charge is shifted and digitized. As described below, two different types of readout, overlapped and non-overlapped can occur. In overlapped operation, each exposure begins while the readout of the previous one is still in progress. In non-overlapped operation (selected automatically if the exposure time is shorter than the readout time) each readout goes to completion before the next exposure begins.

Overlapped Operation Exposure and Readout

Figure 23 illustrates exposure and readout when operating in the overlapped m Figure 23 contains four parts, each depicting a later stage in the exposure-readout cy Eight columns of cells are shown. Columns 1, 3, and 5 contain imaging cells while columns 2, 4, and 6 contain storage cells. The readout register is shown above the array.

Part 1 of the figure shows the array early in the exposure. The im proportional to the amount of light integrated on each of them. The storage cells are empty because no charge has been transferred to them. The arrows between adjacent imaging and storage cells indicate the direction the charge will be shifted when the transfer occurs.

Part 2 of Figure 23 shows the situation early in the readout. The charge in the imaging cells has been transferred to the adjacent storage cells and up-shifting to the readout register has started. Note that a new exposure begins im

Part 3 of Figure 23 shows the transfer to the output node. The lowermost cell in each

n is shown empty. Each row of charges is moved in turn into the readout register,

colum and from there to the output node and off of the array for further processing. The process continues until all charges have been completely transferred out of the array. The imaging cells continue accumulating charge throughout the readout process. Integrating in this way while the readout takes place achieves the maximum possible time efficiency.

Part 4 of Figure 23 illustrates the situation at the end of the readout. The storage cells and readout register are em continues until the end of the programmed exposure.

pty, but the ongoing accumulation of charge in the imaging cells

ode.

cle.

aging cells contain charge

mediately.

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Chapter 5 Operation 65

Empty Readout Register. Exposure has ended and image is being transferred to storage cells.

Image has been shifted to storage cells, first line has been shifted to Readout Register, and second exposure begins.

A1 B1

Charge from first cell has been shifted to the Output Node.

A1 B1

A2 B2

Figure 23. Overlapped Mode Exposure and Readout

After first image is read out,storage cells are

empty. Second exposure continues.

A2 B2

Non-Overlapped Operation Exposure and Readout

Figure 24 illustrates exposure and readout when operating in the non-overlapped m

ode. Non-overlapped operation occurs automatically any time the exposure time is shorter than the readout time. exposure-readout cy

Part 1 of the figure shows the array early in the exposure. The im

Figure 24 contains four parts, each depicting a later stage in the

cle.

aging cells contain charge proportional to the amount of light integrated on each of them. The storage cells are empty because no charge has been transferred to them. The arrows between adjacent imaging and storage cells indicate the direction the charge will be shifted when the transfer occurs.

Part 2 of Figure 24 shows the situation early in the readout cycle. The charge in the imaging cells has been transferred to the adjacent storag

e cells and up-shifting to the readout register

has started. Note that a second exposure doesn’t begin while the readout is in progress.

Part 3 of Figure 24 shows the transfer to the output node. The lowermost cell in each

n is shown empty. Each row of charges is moved in turn into the readout register,

colum and from there to the output node and off of the array for further processing. The process continues until all charges have been completely transferred out of the array. The imaging cells are electronically switched off and do not accumulate any charge as the readout takes place. Because this scheme is less time efficient than that used in the overlapped mode, the frame rate may be lower in non-overlapped operation than it is in overlapped operation with the some exposure time settings.

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66 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

Part 4 of Figure 24 illustrates the situation at the end of the readout. Both the imaging and storage cells are empty. In Free Run operation, the imaging cells will be switched back on immediately, allowing charge accumulation to begin. In Ext Sync operation with no PreOpen, they are not switched back on until after the External Sync pulse is detected.

Empty Readout Register. Exposure has ended and image is being transferred to storage cells.

Image has been shifted to storage cells and first line has been shifted to Readout Register.

A1 B1

Charge from first cell has been shifted to the Output Node.

A1 B1

A2 B2

Figure 24. Non-Overlapped Mode Exposure and Readout

After first image are read out, storage cells are

empty. Second exposure begins if in Freerun mode. Otherwise, waits for Ext Sync.

A2 B2

A subsection of the CCD can be read out at full resolution, sometimes increasing the readout rate while retaining the highest resolution in the region of interest (ROI).

Readout Rate for Interline

Below are the equations that determine the rate at which the CCD is read out. Tables of values for CCDs supported at the tim

Assuming the shutter selection is None

e of the printing of this manual also appear below.

, the time needed to take a full frame at full

resolution in non-overlapped timing mode is:

+ t

(1)

exp

where

is the CCD readout time,

is the exposure time.

exp

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Chapter 5 Operation 67

The readout time is approximately given by:

= [Nx · Ny · (t

+ tv)] + (Nx · ti) (2)

where

is the smaller dimension of the CCD

is the larger dimension of the CCD.

is the time needed to shift one pixel out of the shift register

is the time needed to digitize a pixel

is the time needed to shift one line into the shift register

CCD Array 1 MHz Readout

MicroMAX:782Y Sony ICX075 782 x 582

MicroMAX:782YHS Sony ICX075 782 x 582

MicroMAX:1300Y Sony ICX061 1300x1030

MicroMAX:1300YHS Sony ICX061 1300x1030

Table 8. Approximate Readout Time for the Interline CCD Arrays

0.5 sec. for full frame

N/A

1.43 sec. for full frame

N/A

The readout rate in frames per second for the PI 1300 × 1030 interline array running at 1 MHz is shown in

Table 9.

Region of Interest Size

Binning

1 × 1

2 x 2

3 × 3

4 × 4

1300 × 1030 400 × 400 200 × 200 100 × 100

0.7 2.6 5.4 9

1.9 5.4 9 14

3.2 7.5 12 17

4.3 9 14 19

Table 9. Readout Rates for PI 1300 × 1030 Array at 1 MHz

A subsection of the CCD can be read out at full resolution, sometimes increasing the readout rate while retaining the highest resolution in the region of interest (ROI).

Binning

Binning is the process of adding the data from adjacent pixels together to form a single pixel (sometimes called a super pixel), and it can be accomplished in either hardware or software. Rectangular groups of pixels of any size may be binned together, subject to some hardware and software limitations.

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68 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

On-Chip Binning

Binning is the process of adding the data from adjacent pixels together to form a single pixel (som

etimes called a super-pixel), and it can be accomplished in either hardware or software. Rectangular groups of pixels of any size may be binned together, subject to some hardware and software limitations.

Hardware binning is performed before the signal is read out by

the preamplifier. For signal levels that are readout noise limited this method improves S/N ratio linearly with the number of pixels grouped together. For signals large enough to render the camera photon shot noise limited, the S/N ratio improvement is roughly proportional to the square-root of the number of pixels binned.

Figure 25 shows an example of 2 × 2 binning for a full fram

e CCD array. Each pixel of the image displayed by the software represents 4 pixels of the array. Rectangular bins of any size are possible

Empty Readout Register. Exposure has ended and image is about to be shifted into the Readout Register.

A2A1B2

A4A3B4

A6A5B6

C2C1D2

C3D4D3

C5D6D5

Charges from two lines in each column have been shifted to Readout Register and added.

C1 D1

C5D6D5

A1 B1

++++

A2 B2 C2 D2

A4A3B4B3C4C3D4

A6A5B6

Four charges have been shifted to the Output Node and added.

A1 B1

A2 B2

C1 D1

C2 D2

A4A3B4B3C4C3D4

C5D6D5

A6A5B6

After sum of first four charges have been

transferred from Output Node, next four charges are shifted into Output Node and added.

C1 D1

C2 D2

A4A3B4B3C4C3D4

C5D6D5

A6A5B6

Figure 25. 2 × 2 Binning for Full Frame CCD

Binning also reduces readout time and the burden on computer memory, but at the expense of resolution. Since shift register pixels typically hold only twice as much charge as image pixels, the binning of large sections may result in saturation and “blooming”, or spilling of charge back into the image area.

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Chapter 5 Operation 69

The readout rate for n × n binning is approximated using a more general version of the full resolution equation. The modified equation is:

(3)

On-Chip Binning for Interline

Binning is the process of adding the data from adjacent cells together, and it can be

plished in either hardware or software. Rectangular groups of cells of any size may

accom be binned together, subject to some hardware and software limitations.

Hardware binning is performed before the signal is read out by

the preamplifier. For signal levels that are readout noise limited this method improves S/N ratio linearly with the number of cells grouped together. For signals large enough to render the camera photon shot noise limited, the S/N ratio improvement is roughly proportional to the square-root of the number of pixels binned.

Figure 26 shows an example of 2 × 2 binning. Each cell of the im

age displayed by the

software represents 4 cells of the CCD array. Rectangular bins of any size are possible.

Empty Readout Register. Exposure has ended and image has been shifted to storage cells.

A1 B1 C1

A2 B2

Charges from two storage cells in each column has been shifted to Readout Register. and added.

Four charges have been shifted to the Output Node and added.

Figure 26. 2 × 2 Binning for Interline CCD

After sum of first four charges have been transferred

from Output Node, next four charges are shifted into Output Node and added.

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70 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

Software Binning

One limitation of hardware binning is that the shift register pixels and the output node are

pically only 2-3 times the size of imaging pixels as shown in Table 10. Consequently, if

ty the total charge binned together exceeds the capacity

of the shift register or output node,

the data will be corrupted.

This restriction strongly limits the number of pixels that may be binned in cases where there

all signal superimposed on a large background, such as signals with a large

is a sm fluorescence. Ideally, one would like to bin many pixels to increase the S/N ratio of the weak peaks but this cannot be done because the fluorescence would quickly saturate the CCD.

CCD Array

EEV CCD-37 512 x 512

Imaging/Storage

Cells Well Capacity

100 x 10

electrons 200 x 103 electrons

Readout Register

Well Capacity

Output Node

Well Capacity

400 x 10 electrons

PID 582 x 782 18 x 103 electrons 40 x 103 electrons 40 x 103 electrons

PID 1030 x 1300 34 x 103 electrons 34 x 103 electrons 65 x 103 electrons

Table 10. Well Capacity for some CCD Arrays

The solution is to perform the binning in software. Limited hardware binning may be used when reading out the CCD. Software binning allows you to perform additional binning during the data acquisition process, producing a result that represents many more photons than was possible using hardware binning.

Software averaging can improve the S/N ratio by as much as the square root of the

ber of scans. Unfortunately, with a high number of scans (i.e., above 100) camera 1/f

num noise may reduce the actual S/N ratio to slightly below this theoretical value. Also, if the light source used is photon-flicker limited rather than photon shot-noise limited, this theoretical signal improvement cannot be fully realized. Again, background subtraction from the raw data is necessary.

This technique is also useful in high light level experiments, where the camera is again photon shot-noise lim

ited. Summing multiple pixels in software corresponds to collecting

more photons, and results in a better S/N ratio in the measurement.

Analog Gain Control

Analog gain control is used to change the number of electrons required to generate an Analog-to-Digital Unit (ADU, also known as a count). In WinView/32, the choice of analog gain settings varies depending on the CCD array and the number of output amplifiers. If your camera is not designed for analog gain selection, these settings will not be accessible in the software.

In WinView (version 2.X and higher), analog gain selection is made on the

Experiment Setup…|ADC

tab card. If there is no Analog Gain parameter on that tab card, analog gain may not be selectable or it may be controlled by a gain switch on the camera. When software-selection of Analog Gain is available, the software selection will override any hardware setting that may be selected at the camera.

The analog gain of the camera should generally be set so that the overall noise is ~1 count RMS. In m

ost instances this will occur with the switch set to Medium. In

situations where the A/D range exceeds that of the array, it will generally be better to set

Acquisition|

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Chapter 5 Operation 71

the Analog Gain to High so that the signal can be spread over as much of the A/D range as possible. Users who consistently measure low-level signals may wish to select High,

which reduces some sources of noise. Users who measure high-level signals may wish to

select Low to allow digitization of larger signals. Customized values of gain can be

provided. Contact the factory for additional information.

Example: The following descriptions assum identical in all three instances. The numbers used illustrate the effect of changing

an analog gain setting and do not reflect actual performance: gain at the Low, Medium, and High settings depends on the CCD installed.

Note: The baseline level may require adjustment if you change the analog gain. See

"ADC Offset", page 59, for more information.

Digitization

e that the actual incoming light level is

Low requires eight electrons to generate one ADU. Strong signals can be acquired

without flooding the CCD array

appear weak, you may want to change the gain setting to Medium or High. Medium requires four electrons to generate one ADU. If the gain is set to Medium

and the im

array, you may want to change the gain setting to High. If the CCD array appears to be flooded with light, you may want to change the setting to Low.

High requires two electron to generate one ADU and som

Because fewer electrons are needed to generate an ADU, weaker signals can be more readily detected. Lower noise further enhances the ability to acquire weak signals. If the CCD array appears to be flooded with light, you may want to change the setting

to Medium or Low.

ages or spectra do not appear to take up the full dynamic range of the CCD

. If the gain is set to Low and the images or spectra

e noise sources are reduced.

Introduction

After gain has been applied to the signal, the Analog-to-Digital Converter (ADC) converts that analog information (continuous amplitudes) into a digital data (quantified, discrete steps) that can be read, displayed, and stored by the application software. The number of bits per pixel is based on both the hardware and the settings programmed into

the camera through the software (see "Readout", page

60).

Digitization Rate

During readout, an analog signal representing the charge of each pixel (or binned group of pixels) is digitized. The number of bits per pixel is based on both the hardware and the settings programmed into the camera through the software. Depending on the MicroMAX system, single, dual (100 kHz/1 MHz), or multiple digitization rates may be available.

Dual and multiple digitization provide optimum speeds. Because the readout noise of CCD arrays increases with the readout rate, it is sometimes necessary to trade off readout speed for high dynamic range. In the most common ST-133 configurations, there will be a 1 MHz conversion speed for the fastest possible data collection and a 100 kHz conversion speed for use where noise performance is the paramount concern. Switching between the conversion speeds is completely under software control for total experiment automation.

signal-to-noise ratios at all readout

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72 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

Note: In WinView and WinSpec, the ADC rate can be changed on the Experiment

Setup|ADC tab page.

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Chapter 6 Advanced Topics

Introduction

Previous chapters have discussed setting up the hardware and the software for basic operation. This chapter discusses topics associated with experiment synchronization (set up on the

Timing

Kinetics mode option.

"Standard Timing Modes", the first topic, discusses

Tim included under this topic is a discussion of the

SYNC

tab page in WinView), TTL control, and the

ing Modes, Shutter Control, and Edge Trigger. Also

connector, the input connector for a trigger pulse.

Experiment Setup|

EXT

"Frame Transfer Operation" discusses the two tim

modes available for frame transfer operation, Free Run and External Sync.

"Interline Operation"

operating modes, overlapped or non-overlapped.

"Fast and Safe Modes" discusses the Fast and the

Safe m

and Safe is used when coordinating acquisition with external devices or when the computer speed is not fast enough to keep pace with the acquisition rate.

"TTL Control" discusses the

In/Out levels can be set and read via the WinX32 Automation language to automate data acquisition and processing functions.

"Kinetics Mode" discusses the Kinetics m

on mechanical or optical masking of the CCD array for acquiring time-resolved images/spectra.

odes. Fast is used for real-time data acquisition

discusses the two interline chip

TTL IN/OUT connector on the rear of the ST-133. TTL

ode option. This form of data acquisition relies

ing

Figure 27. Timing tab page

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74 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

Standard Timing Modes

Overview

The Princeton Instruments ST-133 Controller has been designed to allow the greatest possible flexibility when synchronizing data collection with an experiment.

The chart to the right lists the timing mode combinations (selected on the

Setup|Timing

tab page). These timing

Experiment

modes are combined with the Shutter options to provide the widest variety of timing modes for precision experiment synchronization.

Free Run Normal

External Sync Normal

External Sync PreOpen

External Sync with Continuous Cleans

Mode Shutter

Normal

The shutter options available include

al, PreOpen, Disable Opened or

Norm Disable Closed. Disable simply means that the shutter will not operate during the experiment. Disable closed is useful for

External Sync with Continuous Cleans

Table 11. Detector Timing Modes

PreOpen

making dark charge measurements, or when no shutter is present. PreOpen, available in the External Sync and External Sync with Continuous Cleans modes, opens the shutter as soon as the ST-133 is ready to receive an External Sync pulse. This is required if the time between the External Sync pulse and the event is less than a few milliseconds, the time it takes the shutter to open.

The shutter timing is shown in the timing diagrams that follow. Except for Free Run, where the m

odes of shutter operation are identical, both Normal and PreOpen lines are

shown in the timing diagrams and flowchart.

The timing diagrams are labeled indicating the exposure tim

e (texp), shutter compensation time (tc), and readout time (tR). For more information about these parameters, see the discussion of frame readout, starting on page

60.

Free Run

In the Free Run mode the controller does not synchronize with the experiment in any way. The shutter opens as soon as the previous readout is complete, and remains open for the exposure time, t This mode is useful for experiments with a constant light source, such as a CW laser or a DC lamp. Other experiments that can utilize this mode are high repetition studies, where the number of shots that occur during a single shutter cycle is so large that it appears to be continuous illumination.

Other experimental equipment can be synchronized to the detector by

using the output signal (software-selectable SHUTTER or NOT SCAN) from the the back of the ST-133. Shutter operation and the NOT SCAN output signal are shown in

. Any External Sync signals are ignored.

exp

connector on

Figure 29.

Figure 28. Free Run Timing Chart

Shutter opens

Shutter remains open

for preprogrammed

exposure time

System waits while

shutter closes

(part of the chart in Figure 40)

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Chapter 6 Advanced Topics 75

Shutter Open Close Open Close Open Close

NOT SCAN

exp

First exposure

Read Read Read

ctR

Data

stored

Figure 29. Free Run Timing Diagram

Second

exposure

Data

stored

Third

exposure

Data

stored

External Sync

In this mode all exposures are synchronized to an external source. As shown in the flowchart, Shutter operation. In Norm pulse, then opens the shutter for the programmed exposure period. As soon as the exposure is complete, the shutter closes and the CCD array is read out.

External synchronization depends on an edge trigger (negative- or positive-going) which m

ust be supplied to the Ext Sync connector on the back of the camera. The type of edge

must be identified in the application software to ensure that the shutter opening is initiated by the correct edge (in WinView/WinSpec, this is done on the

Setup|Timing

open. Therefore, the External Sync pulse provided by the experiment should precede the actual signal by at least that much time. If not, the shutter may not be open for the duration of the entire signal, or the signal may be missed completely.

Also, since the amount of time from initialization of the experiment to the first External Sy

nc pulse is not fixed, an accurate background subtraction may not be possible for the first readout. In multiple-shot experiments this is easily overcome by simply discarding the first frame.

Figure 30, this mode can be used in combination with Normal or PreOpen

al Shutter mode, the controller waits for an External Sync

Experiment

tab page). Depending on the shutter, it may require up to 28 msec to fully

In the PreOpen Shutter mode, on the other hand, shutter operation is only partially sy

nchronized to the experiment. As soon as the controller is ready to collect data, the shutter opens. Upon arrival of the first External Sync pulse at the ST-133, the shutter remains open for the specified exposure period, closes, and the CCD is read out. As soon as readout is complete, the shutter reopens and waits for the next frame.

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76 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

(shutter preopen)

Shutter opens

Controller waits for

External Sync pulse

Shutter remains open

for preprogrammed

exposure time

System waits while

shutter closes

(shutter normal)

Controller waits for

External Sync pulse

Shutter opens

Figure 30. Showing Shutter "Preopen" & "Normal" Modes in External Sync Operation

Shutter (Normal)

Open Close Open Close Open Close

Shutter (Preopen)

NOT SCAN

External Sync

(negative polarity shown)

Open Close Open

Read Read Read

exp

Data

stored

First wait

and exposure

Second wait

and exposure

Data

stored

Open Close

Third wait

and exposure

Data

stored

Figure 31. External Sync Timing Diagram (- edge trigger)

The PreOpen mode is useful in cases where an External Sync pulse cannot be provided 5-28 msec before the actual signal occurs. Its main drawback is that the CCD is exposed to any ambient light while the shutter is open between frames. If this ambient light is constant, and the triggers occur at regular intervals, this background can also be subtracted, providing that it does not saturate the CCD. As with the Normal Shutter mode, accurate background subtraction may not be possible for the first frame.

Also note that, in addition to signal from ambient light, dark charge accumulates during

). Any variation in the external sync frequency also affects the amount

the “wait” tim

e (t

of dark charge, even if light is not falling on the CCD during this time.

Note: If EXT SYNC is still active at the end of the readout, the hardware will interpret this as a second sync pulse, and so on.

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Chapter 6 Advanced Topics 77

External Sync with Continuous Cleans

The third timing mode available with the MicroMAX camera is called Continuous Cleans. In addition to the standard “cleaning” of the array, which occurs after the controller is enabled, Continuous Cleans will remove any charge from the array until the moment the External Sync pulse is received.

(shutter preopen)

Shutter opens

CCD is continuously

cleaned until External Sync

pulse is received

Shutter remains open

for preprogrammed

exposure time

System waits while

shutter closes

(shutter normal)

CCD is continuously

cleaned until External Sync

pulse is received

Shutter opens

Figure 32. Continuous Cleans Flowchart

Once the External Sync pulse is received, cleaning of the array stops as soon as the current row is shifted, and frame collection begins. With Normal Shutter operation the shutter is opened for the set exposure time. With PreOpen Shutter operation the shutter is open during the continuous cleaning, and once the External Sync pulse is received the shutter remains open for the set exposure time, then closes. If the vertical rows are shifted midway when the External Sync pulse arrives, the pulse is saved until the row shifting is completed, to prevent the CCD from getting “out of step.” As expected, the response latency is on the order of one vertical shift time, from 1-30 μsec depending on the array. This latency does not prevent the incoming signal from being detected, since photo generated electrons are still collected over the entire active area. However, if the signal arrival is coincident with the vertical shifting, image smearing of up to one pixel is possible. The amount of smearing is a function of the signal duration compared to the single vertical shift time.

Note: If EXT SYNC is still active at the end of the readout, the hardware will interpret this as a second sync pulse, and so on.

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78 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

Shutter (Normal)

Shutter (Preopen)

NOT SCAN

External Sync

Open Close Open Close Open Close

Figure 33. Continuous Cleans Timing Diagram

Frame Transfer Operation

In frame transfer operation, half the CCD is used for sensing light and the other half for storage and readout. Not all CCD arrays are capable of readout in this mode, as it requires

that charge be shifted independently in the two halves of the array. See Chapter 5 for a

detailed discussion of readout in the frame-transfer mode operation; the primary focus of this section is frame-transfer timing.

There are two timing options available in frame transfer mode, Free Run and External

nc. Both are similar to their counterparts in full frame (standard) operation, except that

Sy in frame transfer operation a shutter is not generally used. Because there is no shutter (or the shutter is only closed after the camera has collected a series of frames), shutter Normal, PreOpen, or Disable have no physical meaning here. The exposure half of the

array sees light continuously. The actual exposure time is the time between data transfers

from the exposure half of the array to the storage half of the array, and may be longer than the programmed exposure, t the storage half occurs very quickly at the start of each read. During the read, the stored data is shifted to the array’s output port, the same as in standard operation.

Open Close Open Close Open Close

Read

. Data transfer from the exposure half of the array to

exp

Read Read

In Free Run frame-transfer mode operation, half of the array exposure time (t

). Then the data transfer to the storage half of the array takes place,

exp

is exposed for the set

marking the start of the read and the beginning of a new exposure.

In External Sync frame-transfer mode operation, the cam

era reads out one frame for every External Sync pulse received, providing the frequency of the External Sync pulse doesn’t exceed the maximum rate possible with the system. Other than for the first readout, initiated by starting acquisition, a Sync Pulse must be detected before the subsequent readout can occur.

Note: If EXT SYNC is still active at the end of the readout, the hardware will interpret this as a second sync pulse, and so on.

If operating without a shutter, the actual exposure tim

e is set by the period of the sync signal. There is one exception, if the programmed exposure time is less than the readout time, then the actual exposure time is simply equal to t NOT SCAN low). More specifically, if the readout time, t the time the controller waits for the first External Sync pulse, plus t

the shutter compensation time, then the actual exposure time will

exposure time, plus t equal t

. If an External Sync pulse is detected during each read, frames will follow one

, the readout time (marked by

, is greater than the sum of tw1,

, the programmed

exp

Page 79

Chapter 6 Advanced Topics 79

another as rapidly as possible as shown in Figure 34. In these figures, Shutter indicates

the programmed exposure time. If a shutter were present and active, it would also be the actual exposure time.

Prior to the first readout, clean cycles are performed on the array. When the software issues a Start Acquisition com

mand, the first readout is generated in hardware and the rapid data transfer from the exposure half of the array to the storage half of the array occurs (marking the beginning of the first exposure). The initial data read are discarded because they are not meaningful. The first exposure continues until the next data transfer, which occurs at the beginning of the next readout, 50 ns after the first readout ends. The data acquired during the first exposure is then read out. This pattern continues for the duration of the experiment so that, during each frame, the data acquired during the previous frame is read out.

exp

Shutter

NOT SCAN

External Sync

(negative polarity shown)

cleans

actual exposure time

acquisition

50ns min.pulse between frames

Figure 34. Frame Transfer where t

+ t

+ tc < tR

exp

Figure 35 shows the case where the programmed storage time is greater than the time

+ t

required to read out the storage half of the array, that is, where t

+ tc > tR. In this

exp

case, the programmed exposure time will dominate in determining the actual exposure time. In the situation depicted in readout. As alway

s, the External Sync pulse must be detected before the next readout can

Figure 35, the External Sync pulse arrives during the

occur. However, there is no requirement as to when it must be applied or even that it be periodic. The timing of the External Sync pulse is entirely at the user’s discretion. In Figure 36, the External Sync pulse is shown arriving after the read. Detection of the External Sy

nc pulse enables a new readout to occur on completion t

exp

Shutter

actual exposure time

exp

+ tc.

NOT SCAN

External Sync

(negative polarity shown)

cleans

acquisition

Figure 35. Frame Transfer where t

+ t

+ tc > tR

exp

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80 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

exp

Shutter

actual exposure time

NOT SCAN

External Sync

(negative polarity shown)

Interline Operation

Operating Modes

It is important to note that an interline chip can operate in either of two operating modes, overlapped or non-overlapped. The operating mode is always overlapped unless the exposure time is shorter than the readout time, in which case non-overlapped operation is automatically selected by the controlling software. Because overlapped operation is faster, to achieve the fastest possible operation, it is generally preferable to operate

overlapped if possible. Thus there may be situations where increasing the exposure time

slightly will cause the camera to switch from non-overlapped to overlapped operation. When this happens, the video may blank for a moment as the unit is reprogrammed, and then reappear with approximately double the frame rate that was available when it was operating non-overlapped. Detailed discussions of how the interline camera works and the implications for operation follow.

cleans

acquisition

Figure 36. Frame Transfer where Pulse arrives after Readout

As stated before, there are two basic operating m

• Overlapped: When the cam

era is operated in the overlapped mode, readout

odes, overlapped and non-overlapped:

begins at the end of the exposure time and a new exposure is initiated immediately. This mode allows the fastest possible speed. And, because the charge only has to transfer to the adjacent row, there is no smearing.

• Non-overlapped: This operation m

ode is automatically selected by the controlling software when the exposure time is less than the readout time. In nonoverlapped operation, the image is transferred to the storage cells at the end of the exposure time and no further accumulation occurs (the imaging cells are switched off). The accumulated charge on each storage cell is transferred out of the CCD array, amplified, and sent to the controller as an analog signal, where it is digitized prior to transfer to the computer.

Timing Options in Overlapped Readout Mode

Interline CCD arrays have columns of imaging cells alternating with columns of storage cells. During readout, the charge stored in the photo-sensitive imaging cells move only one row to the adjacent storage cells. From there they move downwards to the readout register and from there to the output node. This scheme serves to allow high speeds, no smearing and shutterless operation, a distinct advantage over frame-transfer sensors

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Chapter 6 Advanced Topics 81

where the cell contents can be contaminated by the charge in other cells as data is move across the CCD and under the mask.

There are two timing options available in the overlapped mode, Free Run and External Sync. (None should be the Shutter Type selection if using WinView/32 software and operating without a shutter.) In both Free Run and External Sync operation, the array

photosensors see light continuously. The actual exposure time is the time between data

transfers from a photo-sensitive imaging cell to the adjacent storage cell, and may be longer than the programmed exposure, t imaging cells t the d

rea , the stored data is shifted to the array

output n

• ed for the set

o the storage cells occurs very quickly

ode.

In Free Run overlapped mode operation, the imaging cells are expos exposure time (t

). Then the data transfer to the storage cells takes place,

exp

. Data transfer from the photo-sensitive

exp

at the start of each readout. During

’s readout register and from there to the

marking the start of the read and the beginning of a new exposure.

In the External Sync mode, overlapped operation only is provided. The camera

•

reads out one frame for every External Sync pulse received, providing the frequency of the External Sync pulse does not exceed the maximum rate possib with the system. A sync pulse must be detected bef

ore the subsequent readout can occur. If operating without a shutter, the actual exposure time is set by the period of the sy

nc signal. There is one exception.

If the programmed exposure time is less than the readout time in the External Sync mode, then the actual exposure time is simply equal to t by NOT SCAN low). More specifically, if the readout time, t sum of t the programmed exposure time, plus t

, the time the controller waits for the first External Sync pulse, plus t

the shutter compensation time (zero with

None selected as the Shutter type), then the actual exposure time will equal t

, the readout time (marked

, is greater than the

exp

. If

an External Sync pulse is detected during each read, frames will follow one another as rapidly as possible as sh

programmed exposure tim

own in Figure 37. In these figures, Shutter indicates the

e. If a shutter were present and active, it would al

so be

the actual exposure time.

Before the first readout, clean cycles are performed on the array. When the software issues a Start Acquisition command, the first exposure begins. Time counting of the programmed Exposure Time begins when the sync pulse arrives at the Ext Sync connector. The exposure ends on completion of the programmed Exposure Time. Then the data acquired during the first exposure is read ou the next frame of data is bei

ng acquired. This pattern continues for the duration

t while

of the experiment so that, during each frame, the data acquired during the previous frame is read out.

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82 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

exp

Shutter

NOT SCAN

External Sync

(negative polarity shown)

Figure 38 shows the case where the programmed exposure time is greater than the time required to read out the storage half of the array, that is, where t

> tR. In this case, the programmed exposure time will dominate in

+ t

determining the actual exposure time. In the situation depicted in External Sy pulse must be detected before the next readout can occur. However, there is no requirement as to when it must be applied or even that it be periodic. The timing of the External Sync pulse is entirely at the user’s discretion. In

xternal Sync pulse is shown arriving after the read. Detection of the External

E Sync pulse enables a new readout to occur on completion t

actual exposure time

cleans

acquisition

Figure 37. Overlapped Mode where t

50ns min.pulse between frames

+ t

exp

+ tc < tR

Figure 38, the

nc pulse arrives during the readout. As always, the External Sync

Figure 39, the

+ tc.

exp

+ t

exp

Shutter

NOT SCAN

External Sync

(negative polarity shown)

Shutter

NOT SCAN

External Sync

(negative polarity shown)

Figure 39. Overlapped Mode where Pulse arrives after Readout

actual exposure time

cleans

acquisition

Figure 38. Overlapped Mode where t

exp

actual exposure time

cleans

acquisition

+ t

+ tc > tR

exp

Page 83

Chapter 6 Advanced Topics 83

Fast and Safe Speed Modes

The WinSpec/32 Experiment Setup Timing tab page allows the user to choose Fast or Safe Mode. Figure 40 is a flowchart comparing the two modes. In Fast Mode operation,

the MicroMAX runs according to the tim the computer. In Safe Mode operation, the computer processes each frame as it is received. The MicroMAX cannot collect the next frame until the previous frame has been completely processed.

Fast Mode operation is primarily for collecting "real-time" sequences of experimental data, where tim the Start Acquisition command by the computer, all frames are collected without further intervention from the computer. The advantage of this timing mode is that timing is controlled completely through hardware. A drawback to this mode is that the computer will only display frames when it is not performing other tasks. Image display has a lower

priority, so the image on the screen may lag several images behind. A video monitor connected to the VIDEO output will always display the current image. A second

drawback is that a data overrun may occur if the number of images collected exceeds the amount of allocated RAM or if the computer cannot keep up with the data rate.

ing is critical and events cannot be missed. Once the MicroMAX is sent

ing of the experiment, with no interruptions from

Safe Mode operation is primarily useful for experim focusing, when it is necessary to have the most current image displayed on the screen. It is also useful when data collection must be coordinated with external devices such as external shutters and filter wheels. As seen in com

puter controls when each frame is taken. After each frame is received, the camera sends the Stop Acquisition command to the camera, instructing it to stop acquisition. Once that frame is completely processed and displayed, another Start Acquisition command is sent from the computer to the camera, allowing it to take the next frame. Display is therefore, at most, only one frame behind the actual data collection.

One disadvantage of the Safe mode is that events m since the MicroMAX is disabled for a short time after each frame.

ent setup, including alignment and

Figure 40, in Safe Mode operation, the

ay be missed during the experiment,

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84 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

Safe Mode

Star

Computer programs

camera with exposure

and binning parameters

Start acquisition

command sent from

computer to camera

Cleans performed

1 frame collected

as per timing mode

Stop acquisition command sent from computer to camera

Fast Mode

Start

Computer programs

camera with exposure

and binning parameters

Start acquisition

command sent from

computer to camer

Cleans performed

1 frame collected

as per timing mode

Background or

flatfield on?

Background or

flatfield on?

Ye s

Background and/or

flatfield correction

performed

Frame displayed

Frames

complete?

Ye s

Stop

Figure 40. Chart of Safe and Fast Mode Operation

Background and/or

flatfield correction

performed

Ye s

frames are displayed as

Frames

complete?

During next acquisition

time permits

Stop acquisition command sent from computer to camera

Stop

Ye s

Page 85

Chapter 6 Advanced Topics 85

TTL Control

Fully supported by WinView/WinSpec Version 2.5 when the communication protocol is TAXI (PCI), this feature is not supported when the protocol is USB 2.0.

Introduction

This connector provides 8 TTL lines in, 8 TTL lines out and an input control line.

Figure 41

illustrates the connector and Table 13 lists the signal/pin assignments.

Princeton Instruments WinView/32 software packages incorporate WinX32 Autom a programming language that can be used to automate performing a variety of data acquisition and data processing functions, including use of the TTL IN/OUT functions. WinX32 Automation can be implemented in programs written in Vision Basic or Visual C++. See the WinX32 documentation for more detailed information.

ation,

TTL In

The user controls the 8 TTL Input lines, setting them high (+5 V; TTL 1) or low (0 V; TTL 0). When the lines are read, the combination of highs and lows read defines a decimal number which the computer can use to make a decision and initiate actions as specified in the user’s program. If a TTL IN line is low, its numeric value is 0. If a TTL IN line is high, its numeric value is as follows.

TTL IN Value TTL IN Value

1 1 5 16

2 2 6 32

3 4 7 64

4 8 8 128

This coding allows any different sets of conditions can be specified, at the user’s discretion, using the TTL IN

lines. Any unused lines will default to TTL high (+5 V). For example, to define the

number three, the user would simply set the lines TTL IN 1 and TTL IN 2 both high (+5 V). It would be necessary to apply TTL low to the remaining six lines because they would otherwise default to TTL high as well.

decimal value from 0 to 255 to be defined. Thus, as many as 256

TTL IN Value TTL IN Value

1 High (1) 5 Low (0)

2 High (2) 6 Low (0)

3 Low (0) 7 Low (0)

4 Low (0) 8 Low (0)

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86 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

Table 12 illustrates this coding for decimal values 0 through 7. Obviously this table could easily be extended to show the coding for values all the way to 255.

Decimal

Equiv.

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1

2 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0

3 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1

4 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0

5 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1

6 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0

7 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 1

TTL

IN/OUT 8

1= dec 128

TTL

IN/OUT 7

1=dec 64

TTL IN/OUT 6 1=dec 32

TTL IN/OUT 5 1=dec 16

TTL

IN/OUT 4

1=dec 8

TTL

IN/OUT 3

1=dec 4

TTL

IN/OUT 2

1=dec 2

TTL

IN/OUT 1

1=dec 1

Table 12. Bit Values with Decimal Equivalents:

1 = High

0 = Low

Buffered vs. Latched Inputs

In controlling the TTL IN lines, users also have the choice of two input-line states,

buffered or latched. In the buffered state, the line levels must remain at the intended

levels until they are read. With reference to the preceding example, the high level at TTL IN 1 and TTL IN 2 would have to be maintained until the lines are read. In the latched state, the applied levels continue to be available until read, even if they should change at the TTL In/Out connector.

This control is accomplished using the EN/CLK TTL input (pin 6). If EN/CLK is open or

high, buffered operation is established and the levels reported to the m

acro will be those in effect when the READ is made. With reference to our example, if pin 6 were left unconnected or a TTL high applied, TTL IN 1 and TTL IN 2 would have to be held high until read. If, on the other hand, EN/CLK were made to go low while TTL IN 1 and TTL

IN 2 were high, those values would be latched for as long as EN/CLK remained low. The

levels actually present at TTL IN 1 and TTL IN 2 could then change without changing the value that would be read by software.

TTL Out

The state of the TTL OUT lines is set from WinView/32. Typically, a program monitoring the experiment sets one or more of the TTL Outputs. Apparatus external to the MicroMAX system interrogates the lines and, on detecting the specified logic levels, takes the action appropriate to the detected condition. The coding is the same as for the input lines. There are eight output lines, each of which can be set low (0) or high (1). The combination of states defines a decimal number as previously described for the TTL IN lines.

Page 87

Chapter 6 Advanced Topics 87

Pin # Assignment Pin # Assignment

1 IN 1 14 IN 2

2 IN 3 15 IN 4

3 IN 5 16 IN 6

4 IN 7 17 IN 8

5 GND 18 GND

6 EN/CLK 19 Reserved

7 (future use) 20 GND

8 GND 21 OUT 2

9 OUT 1 22 OUT 4

10 OUT 3 23 OUT 6

11 OUT 5 24 OUT 8

12 OUT 7 25 GND

13 Reserved

Table 13. TTL In/Out Connector Pinout Figure 41. TTL In/Out

Connector

TTL Diagnostics Screen

WinView/32 provides a TTL Diagnostics screen (located in WinView/32 under

Hardware Setup|Diagnostics) that

can be used to test and analyze the TTL In/Out lines.

Note: In WinView software versions prior to 1.6, Output Lines 5, 6, 7, and 8 are shown checked in the default state, incorrectly indicating that their default state is logic 1 in the MicroMAX.

Hardware Interface

A cable will be needed to connect the TTL In/Out connector to the experiment. The design will vary widely according to each user’s needs, but a standard 25-pin female type D-subminiature connector will be needed to mate with the TTL In/Out connector at the ST-133. The hardware at the other end of the cable will depend entirely on the user’s requirements. If the individual connections are made using coaxial cable for maximum noise immunity (recommended), the center conductor of the coax should connect to the proper signal pin and the cable shield should connect to the nearest available ground (grounds are conveniently provided at pins 5, 8, 18 and 20). Connector hardware and cables of many different types are

Figure 42. TTL Diagnostics dialog box

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88 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

widely available and can often be obtained locally, such as at a nearby Radio Shack® store. A list of possibly useful items follows. Note that, although the item appropriate in many situations, they might not meet your specific needs.

•

male type D-subminiature solder type connector (Radio Shack part no 276-

25-pin fe 1548B).

• RG/58U coaxial cable.

• Shielded Metalized hood (Radio Shack part no 276-1536A).

• BNC connector(s) type UG-88 Male BNC connector (Radio Shack part no 278-103).

s listed may be

Example

Suppose you needed to build a cable to monitor the line TTL OUT 1. One approach would be to build a cable assembly as described in the procedure could easily be adapted to other situations.

following paragraphs. This

Begin with a 25-pin fem

1. o Shack

part no 276-1548B). This connector has 25 solder points open on the bac

2. Referring to Figure 41, note that pin 8 = GND and pin 9 = TTL OUT 1.

Using coaxial cable ty outer sheath to pin 8 (GND) and the inn shielding to the lines to insulate them.

Mount the

4. connector in a Shielded Metalized hood (Radio Shack part no 276-

1536A).

5. Build up the cable (y

Connect a B

6. NC connector (UG-88 Male BNC connector) to the free end of the cable

following the instructions supplied by Radio Shack on the box (Radio Shack part no 278-103).

7. To use this cable, connect the DB-25 to the TTL In/Out connector on the back of the

Controller.

8. d

To check the cable, start WinView/32 and open the TTL Diagnostics screen (locate in WinView under Then click the Output Line 1 box. Next click the OK button to actually OUT 1 high. Once you set the voltage, it stays until you send a new command.

ale type D-subminiature solder type connector (Radi

pe RG/58U (6 feet length), strip out the end and solder the

er line to pin 9 (TTL OUT 1). Then apply

ou can use electrical tape) to where the strain relief clamp holds.

Hardware Setup|Diagnostics). Click the Write radio button

set TTL

Measure the voltage at the BNC connector with a standard voltmeter (red on the

central pin, black on the surrounding shielding). Before clicking OK at the TTL Diagnostics screen y

Note that adding a second length of coaxial cable and another BNC connector would be straightforward. However, as you increase the num becomes more convenient to consider using a multiple conductor shielded cable rather than individual coaxial cables.

ou should read 0 V. After clicking OK you should read +5

ber of lines to be monitored, it

Page 89

Chapter 6 Advanced Topics 89

Kinetics Mode

Kinetics operation requires that the Kinetics option has been installed. Additionally, WinView (or WinSpec), version 2.5.18.1 or higher, is required when operating under USB 2.0.

Introduction

Kinetics mode uses the CCD to expose and store a limited number of images in rapid succession. The time it takes to shift each line (or row) on the CCD is as short as a few hundred nanoseconds to few microseconds, depending on the CCD. Therefore the time between images can be as short as a few microseconds. Kinetics mode allows frame transfer CCDs to take time-resolved images/spectra.

Note: Kinetics mode is an option, so the controller must be programmed before your order is shipped. If the Kinetics option has been installed in the ST-133, this readout mode will be made available when you select the appropriate camera type on the

Hardware Setup dialog box.

Below is a simplified illustration of kinetics mode. Returning to our 4 × 6 CCD example, in this case 2/3 of the array to expose a 4 × 2 region. While the shutter remains open, charge is quickly shifted just under the mask, and the exposure is repeated. After a third image is collected the shutter is closed and the CCD is read out. Since the CCD can be read out slowly, very high dynamic range is achieved. Shifting and readout are shown in

is masked, either mechanically or optically. The shutter opens

Figure 43.

C2C1D2

A2A1B2

A4A3B4

C2C1D2

C4C3D4

A2A1B2

A4A3B4

A6A5B6

C2C1D2

C4C3D4

C5D6D5

Figure 43. Kinetics Readout

C2C1D2

A2A1B2

A4A3B4

A6A5B6

C4C3D4

C2C1D2

C4C3D4

C5D6D5

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90 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

Kinetic Timing Modes

Kinetics mode operates with three timing modes: Free Run, Single Trigger, and Multiple Trigger.

Figure 44. Hardware Setup dialog box Figure 45. Experiment Setup dialog box

Free Run

In the Free Run Kinetics mode, the controller takes a series of im

ages, each with the

Exposure time set through the software (in WinView32, the exposure time is set on the Experiment Setup|Main tab page). The time between image frames, which may be as short as a few microseconds, is limited by the time required to shift an image under the mask: this interimage time equals the Vertical Shift rate (specified in

μsec/row) multiplied by the

Window Size (the number of rows allocated for an image frame). The exact number of frames depends on the selected Window Size and is equal to the number of pixels perpendicular to the shift register divided by the Window Size.

Example: Referring to the readout shown in Figure 43, there are 6 pixels perpendicular to

the shift register and the Window Size is 2 pixels high. The num Vertical Shift Rate for the CCD is 1.6

μsec/row, the Shift time will be 3.2 μsec per frame.

ber of frames is 3. If the

Integrate signals (SHUTTER) or Readout signals (NOT SCAN) are provided at the

BNC for timing measurements

Page 91

Chapter 6 Advanced Topics 91

START ACQUIRE command from the software issent automatically

START ACQUIRE

SHUTTER Signal

when ACQUIRE or FOCUS is clicked on in the software.

Exposure

Shift

NOT SCAN Signal

Shutter

opening

time

Shutter closing

time

Readout

Figure 46. Free Run Timing Diagram

Single Trigger

Single Trigger Kinetics mode takes an entire series of images with each External Trigger Pulse (applied at the Ext. Sy

nc BNC on the control board of the ST-133). After the series is complete the shutter closes and the CCD is read out at normal speeds. Once the readout is complete the camera is ready for the next series of exposures. This timing is shown in Figure 47, where a single External trigger pulse is used to collect a burst of 6 frames.

START ACQUIRE command from the software issent automatically

START ACQUIRE

External Trigger

SHUTTER Signal

when ACQUIRE or FOCUS is clicked on in the software.

Exposure

Shift

NOT SCAN Signal

Shutter

opening

time

Shutter closing

time

Readout

Figure 47. Single Trigger Timing Diagram

Multiple Trigger

Multiple Trigger Kinetics mode takes a single im

age in the series for each External Sync pulse received by the controller. Once the series is complete the shutter closes and readout begins. Since the shutter is open during the entire series of images, if the External Sync pulses are irregularly spaced then the exposures will be of different lengths. Once the series has been read out the camera is ready for the next series. This timing is shown

Figure 48, where a series of 6 frames is collected with 6 External Sync pulses.

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92 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

START ACQUIRE command from the software issent automatically

START ACQUIRE

External Triggers

SHUTTER Signal

when ACQUIRE or FOCUS is clicked on in the software.

Exposure

Shift

NOT SCAN Signal

Shutter

opening

time

Figure 48. Multiple Trigger Timing Diagram

Shutter closing

time

Readout

Page 93

Chapter 7 MicroMAX DIF Camera (Double Image Feature)

Supported by WinView/WinSpec Version 2.5 when the communication protocol is TAXI (PCI), this feature is not supported when the protocol is USB 2.0.

Introduction

This chapter describes operation of the MicroMAX DIF system. Both the Controller and a MicroMAX Interline camera must have factory modifications installed for DIF operation. In addition to the internal changes, a camera modified for DIF operation would ordinarily include a mechanical shutter. Execution of the DIF functions is done via the WinView/32 software (v2.2 or higher), which, when controlling a DIF system, provides three timing modes unique to DIF systems.

Basically, a DIF system is one that has been factory in pairs with very short exposure times (as small as 1 µs). This capability makes it ideal for use in experiments where the goal is to obtain two fast successive images for the purpose of characterizing a time-differentiated laser-strobed process. LIF and velocity measurements are specific measurements that can be easily performed using the DIF system.

The ability of the interline chip to quickly transfer an im and hold it there makes this method of acquiring images possible. As soon as the first image is acquired, it is shifted under the masked area and held. The second exposure begins and is continuously held in the photodiode region until the mechanical shutter closes. Light entering the camera while waiting for the shutter to close is small compared to that captured during the strobed event and has little effect on the acquired data.

In addition to the Free Run mode, which allows single image acquisitions, three DIF

ing modes, IEC (Internal Exposure Control), EEC (External Exposure Control) and

tim ESABI (Electronic Shutter Active Between Images) are provided. Each works basically as follows.

IEC: Allows two successive fast im

image acquisition taking place immediately after the first. Acquisition is initiated by applying a single externally derived trigger to the controller's Ext. Sync connector.

EEC

: Allows two successive fast images of differing duration to be acquired, with the

second image acquisition taking place immediately after the first. Acquisition is initiated by applying a single externally de connector, the same as in IEC operation.

ages of equal duration to be acquired, with the second

modified to allow images to be taken

age under the masked columns

rived trigger to the controller'

s Ext. Sync

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94 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

ESABI: Allows two fast images of equal duration to be acquired. Unlike the IEC and

EEC modes, in the ESABI mode, two pulses are applied to the Ext. Sync. connector. Each initiates a separate acquisition, allowing the user to set the time between acquisitions by externally adjusting the time between the two applied pulses.

When the data is saved, both images are saved in a single *.spe file. The header is followed by

Notes:

1. ra tab page (Hardware on the Setup The Readout Mode set on the Controller/Came

menu) must be set to DIF for DIF operation.

2. SABI timing mode, set the Number of Images to 2 and In the IEC, EEC or E

Accumulations to 1.

3. ry Values button. On the Setup Hardware Cleans/Skips tab page, click the Load Facto

This step is necessary for proper operation of the interline camera.

4. For most of the MicroMAX DIF cameras, the ESABI timing mode is activated and

deactivated via the application software. If a MicroMAX DIF camera has a switch on its back panel, this switch must be set to the ACTIVE position for operation in the ESABI timing mode. At all other times it must be set to INACTIVE.

frame 1 and then immediately afterwards by frame 2. This system m

t to later load the im

ages from the file for post-processing analysis. convenien

akes it

Timing Mo

des

The timing mode selections provided on the Acquisition Experiment Setup Tim are ndard systems. The provided timing modes are:

different from those in sta

FREERUN (single shot) IEC: Internal Exposure Control (two shot) EEC: External Exposure Control (two shot) ESABI: Electronic Shutter Activ

A discussion of each mode follows.

e Between Images (two shot)

Free Run

The Free Run mode allows the user to capture single images. The exposure time is set on the Experiment Setup Main tab page, the same as in non-DIF systems, with the difference that the exposure time can be as short as one 1 µs (maximum exposure time is

14.3 minutes). It often proves convenient to simply disable the mechanical shutter open in Free Run operation. The shutter requires ~8 ms to open and 8 ms to close. The camera waits until the shutter is completely open before acquiring the image, and in a typical experiment, the second image acquisition will be Readout doesn’t occur until the shutter closes.

The such as the laser. As soon as the shutter is completely opened and all of the cleans have been performed, image. As soon as the first exposure actually be Figure 49. Thus the positive going edge of the

signal output of the controller can be used to trigger external equipment,

goes low to indicate that th era is ready to capture an

over long before the shutter closes.

e cam

gins,

returns high, as shown in

output marks the start of the first

ing page

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Chapter 7 MicroMAX DIF Camera 95

exposure. In Free Run operation, the time that remains low will ty

pically be in

the range of 400 to 600 ns.

READY

400 ns

EXPOSURE

Figure 49. Free Run Mode Timing Diagram

Example: Figure 50 shows an experiment where signal is

the rising edge of the

and used to trigger a DG-535 Delay Generator, which provides the required delay

triggers a laser source, Q switch, or other device.

Computer DG-535

Camera

Head

Controller

READY

Q Switch

Figure 50. Setup using to Trigger an Event

illustrates the timing for a typical experiment like that shown in Figure 51 Figure 50.

READY

400 ns

EXPOSURE

To Q Switch

1 μs

2 μs

Figure 51. Timing for Experiment Setup shown in Figure 50

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96 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

Summary of Free Run Timing mode

• Allows you to capture single images.

• Requires that the switch, if present on the back of the camera, be set to INACTIVE.

• Uses Exposure Time set via software Experiment Setup.

• Exposure time range is 1 µs < Exp. Time < 14.3 minutes

• Exposure does not occur until the mechanical shutter is completely open and readout

does not begin until the mechanical shutter is completely closed.

• The mechanical shutter may, however, be disabled open.

The external hardware.

signal on the back of the controller may be used as a trigger to other

goes low when the system is ready to capture an image, then

is reset high once exposure begins. In the FREERUN timing mode, this will be a short

(400 ns to 600 ns) TTL 0 pulse.

IEC (Internal Exposure Control)

In this mode, a single external trigger applied to Ext Sync initiates two successive image acquisitions of equal duration. The Exposure Time is set in software (Experiment Setup Main tab page and elsewhere) the same as in a standard system and can be as short as 1 µs. On initiating the acquisition (ACQ button or Acquire on the Acquisition menu), the initialization routine runs and the shutter opens. When the shutter is completely open,

drops low and remains in that state until an external trigger is applied to Ext

Sync. Continuous cleaning takes place until the trigger is applied. When the trigger is sensed, the first exposure begins and the first image is captured (shifted under the masked columns and held there). The exposure for capture of the second image begins. This sequence is illustrated in

If an external trigger is applied before trigger source could be running continuously at some repetition rate (as long as that rep rate is fairly slow), but capture wouldn’t occur until comes in, it begins exposure of the first image. The exposure time is that set on the Experiment Setup Main tab page. For example, if the exposure time is set to 5 µs, the first image will be 5 µs. After an additional 5 µs (second exposure), the shutter will begin to close. Even though the shutter takes ~8 ms to close, the presumption is that the strobe will be timed to occur during the 5 µs second exposure time. It would also be possible to strobe and capture while the shutter is in the act of closing. However, that would generally not be advisable because it would introduce non-linearity effects from the closing shutter. It is better to have capture occur during the time allotted for it. Once the shutter is closed, the readout begins. The first image captured is the first one read out.

Figure 52.

goes low, it will be ignored. Thus the

goes low. Once that trigger

Example 1: An external trigger initiates the im

the system is ready. Once

is low, an external trigger applied to Ext

Sync initiates the double image capture. Figure 52 illustrates the timing for a ty

pical IEC experiment with an exposure time of 5 µs.

aging process.

goes low when

Page 97

Chapter 7 MicroMAX DIF Camera 97

READY

EXT. SYNC.

Images

200 ns

~200 ns

Image1 Image 2

5 μs

NOTSCAN

Mechanical

Shutter

8 ms

>200 ns

8 ms

Laser Output

Laser 1 Laser 2

Figure 52. Timing Diagram for Typical IEC Measurement

Figure 53 illustrates the interconnections that might be used for such an experiment with two

Figure 54 shows the timing for the two-laser experiment.

lasers.

Computer

Controller

EXT SYNC

A DG535 can run at a fairly slow rep rate or use READY signal as a trigger.

Delay Generator

(i.e.,DG535)

ABC

Laser 2Laser 1

READY

EXT. SYNC.

Images

NOTSCAN

Mechanical

Shutter

Laser Output

Figure 54. Timing Diagram for IEC Experiment with Two Lasers

Camera

Head

Sample Volume

STOP

Figure 53. Setup for IEC Experiment with Two Lasers

200 ns

Image 1 Image 2

5 μs 5 μs

8 ms

>200 ns

Laser 1 Laser 2

8 ms

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98 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

Example 2: As shown in Figure 55, the signal from the controller can be used

to trigger the controller by connecting it back into the EXT SYNC connector. At the same time, it can be used to trigger a DG-535.

Computer

EXT SYNC

READY

Camera

Head

Controller

Delay Generator

(i.e.,DG535)

Ext.

Laser 1

Laser 2

Figure 55. Another Hardware Setup for an IEC Measurement

Note: This setup will not work in the EEC mode or the ESABI mode.

Summary of IEC Timing mode

• Gives the user the ability to capture two images before readout.

• Requires that the switch, if present on the back of the camera, be set to INACTIVE.

• The Exposure Time set in software on the Experiment Setup Main tab page becomes

the exposure time of the first image and also the wait before closing the mechanical shutter.

• An external trigger is required to initiate the imaging process. The goes low

when the system is ready. Once

is low, an external trigger applied to the

EXT SYNC connector initiates the double image capture.

EEC (External Exposure Control)

Gives the user the ability to capture two images before readout with a different exposure time for each. EEC uses the external trigger to control the exposure time of the first image and the exposure time set in software to control the exposure time of the second image. When the external trigger applied to Ext Sync is detected, the first exposure begins. The end of the trigger marks the end of the first image and the start of the second. After an interval equal to the exposure time set on the Experiment Setup Main page, the shutter closes. As in the IEC mode, the system is receptive to an applied trigger when

goes low. Note that the shutter can be disabled open. With the shutter disabled open, if reading out a full array, the second exposure time would actually last ~1.4 s. If reading out a single strip, the readout time (and hence the second exposure) would be much shorter, on the order of a few hundred microseconds. Generally though, the experiment timing would be set up so that the second strobed event would occur during the second image time as set by the Exposure Time parameter on the Experiment Setup

Main page.

Example: The exposure tim

the EXT. SYNC connector. The exposure time for the second image is the exposure time set in software under Experiment Setup. An external trigger supplied by the user is required to initiate the imaging process and control the

e for the first image is controlled with the signal applied to

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Chapter 7 MicroMAX DIF Camera 99

first image exposure time. The controller signal goes low when the

camera is ready to begin imaging.

READY

EXT. SYNC. (A)

Figure 56 illustrates an EEC timing example.

200 ns

Images

NOT SCAN

Mechanical

Shutter

8 ms

Image 1

sync

Figure 56. EEC Timing Example with Exposure Time in Software Set to t

Image 2

exp

8 ms

exp

Summary of EEC Timing mode

• Enables double image capture under external control.

• Requires that the switch, if present on the back of the camera, be set to INACTIVE.

• The width of the pulse applied to Ext Sync sets the exposure time of the first image.

The Exposure Time set in software on the Experiment Setup Main tab page sets the second image time, at the end of which the shutter begins to close.

• An external trigger is required to initiate the imaging process. The goes low

when the system is ready. Once

is low, an external trigger applied to the

Ext Sync connector initiates the double image capture.

ESABI (Electronic Shutter Active Between Images)

The last timing mode, ESABI, allows separation time between the two images. This mode gives the user the ability to capture two images and use the interline chip’s electronic shutter feature between images so that no signal is integrated in the time between. The exposure time for both images is the same but they can be separated in time. Each time the camera is ready to receive a trigger,

goes low twice during each ESABI cycle and the controller can be triggered once by a sync pulse applied to Ext Sync each time. Thus two sync pulses are required, one for each image, during each double capture. The programmed Exposure Time as set on the Experiment Setup Main tab page sets the first image time and the time after the start of the second image time when the shutter begins to close. ESABI m

ode timing.

goes low. Thus

Figure 57 illustrates

Note that charge produced by light impinging on the photosensors during the interval between the two im

ages is discarded and does not affect the second image. The time between the first and second image can be as long as required according to the experimental requirements. This can be particularly useful in fluorescence measurements. By doing captures with different intervals between the two images, the fluorescence decay characteristics can be easily measured.

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100 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 6.C

READY

EXT. SYNC. (A)

Images

NOT SCAN

Mechanical

Shutter

8 ms

Figure 57. ESABI Timing Example: Image Exposure time = t

Note: The input trigger pulse, t

trig

Image 1

exp

, must be shorter than the exposure time t

trig

No Signal

Integration

200 ns200 ns

trig

Image 2

exp

set in software

exp

8 ms

. Otherwise

exp

the second image will occur immediately after the first.

Summary of ESABI Timing mode

• The exposure time selected in Experiment Setup sets the exposure time of both the

first and second image.

• Requires that the switch, if present on the back of the camera, be set to ACTIVE.

• An externally derived trigger edge applied to Ext Sync is required to begin each

image exposure period.

• goes low when the system is ready to capture each image.

Tips and Tricks

Lab Illumination

In DIF measurements, it is necessary to remain mindful of the possibility of laboratory light affecting the images. Because the first image can be timed with precision, laboratory light that reaches the camera would generally not be a problem in the first image, particularly if the capture time is short (few microseconds). The second image, on the other hand, is much more susceptible to degradation from laboratory illumination because, even though the second image time may be set to just a few microseconds, the time to close the shutter, ~8 ms, must be added to that value. Light impinging on the photosensors during that time will be integrated with the second image. Unless the experiment is arranged so that background light can’t reach the camera, or unless the signal is quite bright, the possibility of the second image becoming degraded must be considered. Where this is source of degradation is a problem, the solution may be to sharply reduce the laboratory illumination. It should be noted though, that the signal from many strobed measurements will be sufficiently bright to allow normal laboratory illumination to be maintained.

Background Subtraction

In any of the double imaging modes, a good idea would be to block both of your light sources and go ahead and take two images in the same DIF mode and with the same settings as will be used for the real measurements. That result will be two background images that can later be subtracted from the experimental data images.

Princeton 4411-0039-CE User Manual

Specifications and Main Features

Frequently Asked Questions

User Manual

Table of Contents

Chapter 1 Introduction

Introduction

MicroMAX System Components

Overview

Camera

Controller

Applications

About this Manual

Manual Organization

Safety Related Symbols Used in This Manual

Environmental Conditions

Grounding and Safety

Precautions

Repairs

Cleaning

Camera and Controller

Optical Surfaces

Princeton Instruments Customer Service

Chapter 2 System Component Descriptions

MicroMAX Camera

ST-133 Controller

Cables

Interface Card

Application Software

User Manuals

Chapter 3 Installation Overview

Chapter 4 System Setup

Unpacking the System

Checking the Equipment and Parts Inventory

System Requirements

Power

Host Computer

Verifying Controller Voltage Setting

To Check the Controller's Voltage Setting:

Installing the Application Software

Setting up the Communication Interface

Setting up a PCI Interface

To Install a PCI Serial Buffer Card in the Host Computer:

To Install the PCI Card Driver

Setting up a USB 2.0 Interface

USB 2.0 Limitations

To Update the OrangeUSB USB 2.0 Driver:

To Install the Princeton Instruments USB2 Interface:

Mounting the Camera

General

Mounting the Lens

Mounting to a Microscope

C-Mount

F-Mount

Mounting to a Spectrometer

Selecting the Shutter Setting

To Select the Shutter Setting:

Connecting the Interface (Controller-Computer) Cable

TAXI® Cable (6050-0148-CE)

To Connect the TAXI Cable:

USB 2.0 Cable (6050-0494)

To Connect the USB 2.0 Cable:

Connecting the Detector-Controller Cable

To Connect the Detector-Controller Cable:

Entering the Default Camera System Parameters into WinX (WinView/32, WinSpec/32, or WinXTest/32)

WinX Versions 2.5.19.6 and later

WinX Versions before 2.5.19.6: Run RSConfig.exe

Chapter 5 Operation

Introduction

EMF and Xenon or Hg Arc Lamps

Imaging Field of View

RS-170 or CCIR Video

First Light (Imaging)

Assumptions

Cabling

Getting Started

Setting the Parameters

Focusing

Acquiring Data

Assumptions