Princeton PIXIS-XB System User Manual
4411-0133
Version 2
November 15, 2013
*4411-0133*
Copyright 2011-2013 Princeton Instruments, a division of Roper Scientific, Inc.
3660 Quakerbridge Rd
Trenton, NJ 08619
TEL: 800-874-9789 / 609-587-9797
FAX: 609-587-1970
All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced by any means without the written
permission of Princeton Instruments, a division of Roper Scientific, Inc. ("Princeton Instruments").
Printed in the United States of America.
IntelliCal and PICam are trademarks, and LightField and PVCAM are registered trademarks of Roper
Scientific, Inc.
LabVIEW is a registered trademark of National Instruments, Inc.
LEMO is a registered trademark of INTERLEMO HOLDING SA
Scientific Imaging ToolKit and SITK are trademarks of R Cubed Software Consultants, LLC.
SpectraPro is a trademark of Acton Research Corporation.
UNIBLITZ is a registered trademark of VA, Inc. Corporation
Windows and Windows Vista are registered trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the United States
and/or other countries.
The information in this publication is believed to be accurate as of the publication release date. However,
Princeton Instruments does not assume any responsibility for any consequences including any damages
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.
Table of Contents
Chapter 1 Introduction .........................................................................................7
PIXIS-XB ..................................................................................................................... 7
Advanced Design ......................................................................................................... 7
Grounding and Safety ................................................................................................... 7
Precautions ................................................................................................................... 8
Cleaning ....................................................................................................................... 8
Repairs .......................................................................................................................... 9
Princeton Instruments Customer Support ..................................................................... 9
About this Manual ........................................................................................................ 9
Chapter 2 System Component Descriptions .................................................. 11
System Components ................................................................................................... 11
PIXIS-XB Camera ...................................................................................................... 12
PIXIS-XB Power Supply............................................................................................ 13
Coolant Hoses (Liquid-cooled Systems) .................................................................... 14
Cables ......................................................................................................................... 14
Certificate of Performance ......................................................................................... 14
User Manuals .............................................................................................................. 14
Optional Components ................................................................................................. 15
Chapter 3 Initial System Verification ............................................................... 17
Chapter 4 System Setup ................................................................................... 19
Introduction ................................................................................................................ 19
Unpacking the System ................................................................................................ 19
Checking the Equipment and Parts Inventory ............................................................ 20
System Requirements ................................................................................................. 20
Installing the Application Software ............................................................................ 22
Mounting the Camera ................................................................................................. 24
Making the Camera-Circulator Connections for a CoolCUBEII ................................ 25
Entering the Default Camera System Parameters ...................................................... 26
Connecting an External Shutter .................................................................................. 28
Connecting/Disconnecting the PIXIS-XB USB Cable ............................................... 28
Chapter 5 Operation .......................................................................................... 29
Introduction ................................................................................................................ 29
System On/Off Sequences .......................................................................................... 30
WinX First Light Instructions .................................................................................... 30
LightField First Light Instructions ............................................................................. 33
Exposure and Signal ................................................................................................... 36
Readout....................................................................................................................... 39
Digitization (Rate) ...................................................................................................... 44
iii
iv PIXIS-XB System Manual Version 2
Chapter 6 Advanced Topics ............................................................................. 47
Introduction ................................................................................................................ 47
Timing Modes ............................................................................................................ 48
Fast and Safe Modes................................................................................................... 54
LOGIC OUT Control ................................................................................................. 56
Kinetics Mode ............................................................................................................ 57
Custom Modes ............................................................................................................ 60
Chapter 7 Troubleshooting .............................................................................. 63
Introduction ................................................................................................................ 63
Acquisition Started but Viewer Contents Do Not Update .......................................... 64
Baseline Signal Suddenly Changes ............................................................................ 64
Camera Stops Working .............................................................................................. 64
Camera1 (or similar name) in Camera Name field .................................................... 65
Controller Is Not Responding..................................................................................... 66
CoolCUBEII: Low Coolant (Air in the Hoses) ........................................................... 66
Cooling Troubleshooting ............................................................................................ 67
Data Loss or Serial Violation ..................................................................................... 68
Data Overrun Due to Hardware Conflict message ..................................................... 68
Data Overrun Has Occurred message......................................................................... 69
Device Is Not Found................................................................................................... 69
Device is Occupied ..................................................................................................... 70
Error Creating Controller message ............................................................................. 70
Overexposed or Smeared Images ............................................................................... 70
Program Error message .............................................................................................. 71
Serial violations have occurred. Check interface cable. ............................................. 72
Shutter Failure ............................................................................................................ 72
Vignetting ................................................................................................................... 72
Declaration of Conformity ................................................................................ 73
Appendix A Basic Specifications .................................................................... 75
CCD Arrays ................................................................................................................ 75
Quantum Efficiency ................................................................................................... 75
Camera ....................................................................................................................... 76
Options ....................................................................................................................... 77
Appendix B Outline Drawings .......................................................................... 79
PIXIS-XB Camera ...................................................................................................... 79
Customer-Supplied Vacuum Interface Flange: Minimum Design
Requirements .............................................................................................................. 83
CoolCUBEII Circulator ............................................................................................... 84
Appendix C Cross-Referencing of WinX and LightField Terms ...................... 85
WinX-to-LightField.................................................................................................... 85
LightField-to-WinX.................................................................................................... 87
Table of Contents v
Warranty & Service ........................................................................................... 89
Limited Warranty ....................................................................................................... 89
Contact Information ................................................................................................... 92
Index ................................................................................................................... 93
Figures
Figure 1. Typical System Components ............................................................................ 11
Figure 2. Initial System Checkout Imaging Experiment Layout (Air-cooled Camera) ... 18
Figure 3. Initial System Checkout Imaging Experiment Layout (Liquid-cooled Camera) ... 18
Figure 4. WinView Installation: Select Installation Type dialog .................................... 22
Figure 5. LightField Installation Wizard dialog .............................................................. 23
Figure 6. Position of Camera Mounting Hole .................................................................. 24
Figure 7. Camera Detection Wizard - Welcome dialog ................................................... 26
Figure 8. LightField Experiment Workspace................................................................... 27
Figure 9. Block Diagram of PIXIS-XB System .............................................................. 29
Figure 10. Initial System Checkout Imaging Experiment Layout ................................... 30
Figure 11. Example of WinView Data Acquired from First Light Procedure ................. 33
Figure 12. Available Devices Area .................................................................................. 34
Figure 13. Experiment Devices Area ............................................................................... 35
Figure 14. View Area....................................................................................................... 35
Figure 15. View Area Displaying an Image .................................................................... 36
Figure 16. Mechanical Shutter Operation and NOT SCAN Signal ................................. 37
Figure 17. WinX Detector Temperature dialog .............................................................. 37
Figure 18. Array Terms for a CCD with a Dual Output Amplifier ................................. 39
Figure 19. Full Frame at Full Resolution ......................................................................... 39
Figure 20. 2 × 2 Binning .................................................................................................. 41
Figure 21. Binning and Array Orientation ....................................................................... 42
Figure 22. Free Run {No Response} Timing Chart, part of the chart in Figure 30 ......... 49
Figure 23. Free Run {No Response} Timing Diagram.................................................... 49
Figure 24. Chart Showing Two External Sync Timing Options ...................................... 50
Figure 25. Timing Diagram for External Sync Mode (+ edge trigger) ............................ 51
Figure 26. Continuous Cleans {Clean Until Trigger} Flowchart .................................... 52
Figure 27. WinX Continuous Cleans Timing Diagram ................................................... 53
Figure 28. LightField Clean Until Trigger (CUT) Timing Diagram ............................... 53
Figure 29. Rear of PIXIS-XB Camera ............................................................................. 53
Figure 30. Chart of Safe and Fast Mode Operation ......................................................... 55
Figure 31. Comparison of NOT SCAN {Not Reading Out}, SHUTTER
{Shutter Open}, and NOT READY {Busy} Logic Output Levels ............... 56
Figure 32. Kinetics Readout ............................................................................................ 57
Figure 33. Hardware Setup dialog ................................................................................... 58
Figure 34. Experiment Setup dialog ................................................................................ 58
Figure 35. Readout expander: Kinetics Readout Mode .................................................. 58
Figure 36. Shutter and Trigger expanders........................................................................ 58
Figure 37. Free Run Timing Diagram.............................................................................. 59
Figure 38. Single Trigger Timing Diagram ..................................................................... 59
Figure 39. Multiple Trigger Timing Diagram.................................................................. 60
Figure 40. WinX: Custom Chip tab ................................................................................. 61
Figure 41. LightField: Custom Sensor pane .................................................................... 61
Figure 42. LightField: Custom Timing ............................................................................ 62
vi PIXIS-XB System Manual Version 2
Figure 43. WinX: Vertical Shift ...................................................................................... 62
Figure 44. Acquisition Display ........................................................................................ 64
Figure 45. Camera1 in Camera Name Field .................................................................... 65
Figure 46. Data Overrun Due to Hardware Conflict dialog ............................................. 68
Figure 47. Devices Missing dialog .................................................................................. 69
Figure 48. Occupied Device icon ................................................................................... 70
Figure 49. Error Creating Controller dialog .................................................................... 70
Figure 50. Program Error dialog ...................................................................................... 71
Figure 51. Serial Violations Have Occurred dialog ......................................................... 72
Figure 52. PIXIS-XB Quantum Efficiency Curve ........................................................... 75
Figure 53. PIXIS-XB:400 and 1024 (Air-Cooled) .......................................................... 79
Figure 54. PIXIS-XB:400 and 1024 (Liquid-Cooled) ..................................................... 80
Figure 55. PIXIS-XB:1300 and 2048 (Air-Cooled) ........................................................ 81
Figure 56. PIXIS-XB:1300 and 2048 (Liquid-Cooled) ................................................... 82
Figure 57. Dimensional Drawing for Customer-Supplied Vacuum Interface Flange ..... 83
Figure 58. CoolCUBEII Circulator ................................................................................... 84
Tables
Table 1. USB Driver Files and Locations ........................................................................ 22
Table 2. Example of Controller Gain {Analog Gain} vs. Readout Port .......................... 43
Table 3. Camera Timing Modes ...................................................................................... 48
Table 4. Typical Deepest Operating Temperature ........................................................... 77
Chapter 1
WARNING!
Introduction
PIXIS-XB
Thank you for purchasing a PIXIS-XB camera system
from Princeton Instruments. For over three decades
Princeton Instruments has been the legendary name behind
the most revolutionary spectroscopy and imaging products
for cutting edge research.
Among the many state of the art features are its integrated
controller, deep thermoelectric air-cooling, and compact
design. Currently the platform supports several imaging and spectroscopy CCDs. Please
visit www.princetoninstruments.com for the current list of supported CCDs.
Advanced Design
PIXIS-XB systems are designed specifically for applications like X-ray photon
correlation spectroscopy (XPCS), X-ray intensity fluctuation spectroscopy (XIFS), X-ray
diffraction, X-ray lithography, and X-ray spectroscopy. These cameras use deepdepletion CCDs for direct detection of X-rays between < 3 keV and 20 keV. A thin
beryllium window in front vacuum seals the unit for deep cooling, protects the CCD, and
reduces background by filtering low-energy X-rays. The thermoelectrically-cooled option
delivers maintenance-free operation. The software-selectable gains, output amplifiers,
and readout speeds offer users highly flexible configuration capabilities to optimize
system performance. USB 2.0 electronics provide the plug-and-play interface with the host
computer.
To utilize the full potential of the PIXIS-XB camera system, please read the manual
completely.
Grounding and Safety
Before turning on the power supply (air-cooled system or liquid-cooled system with a
CoolCUBEII circulator), 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.
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.
7
8 PIXIS-XB System Manual Version 2
WARNING!
WARNING!
Replacement power cords or power plugs must have the same polarity and power rating
as that of the original ones to avoid hazard due to electrical shock.
Precautions
To prevent permanently damaging the system, please observe the following precautions:
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.
If you are using high-voltage equipment (such as an arc lamp) with your camera
system, be sure to turn the camera power ON LAST and turn the camera power
OFF FIRST.
Use caution when triggering high-current switching devices (such as an arc lamp)
near your system. The CCD can be permanently damaged by transient voltage
spikes. If electrically noisy devices are present, an isolated, conditioned power
line or dedicated isolation transformer is highly recommended.
Do not block air vents on the camera. Preventing the free flow of air overheats
the camera and may damage it.
Cleaning
If the PIXIS-XB camera system is used in a manner not specified by Princeton
Instruments, the protection provided by the equipment may be impaired.
Turn off all power to the equipment and secure all covers before cleaning the units.
Otherwise, damage to the equipment or injury to you could occur.
Camera
Although there is no periodic maintenance that needs to be performed on a PIXIS-XB
camera, users are advised to wipe it down with a clean damp cloth from time to time. This
operation should only be done on external surfaces other than the Beryllium window (water
can damage the window), all covers must be secured, and the camera must powered off. 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.
Beryllium Window
Cleaning may be necessary to remove oil or other contaminants from the surface of the
window. Because a fingerprint left on the surface will disrupt the effectiveness of the
final etch or coating and because of the potential toxicity, protective gloves should be
worn when cleaning the window. To clean the window, wipe it down with isopropanol
and a lintless cloth. DO NOT use water. Beryllium is highly susceptible to localized
pitting when in contact with the chloride and sulfate ions contained in ordinary water.
Chapter 1 Introduction 9
Repairs
Save the original packing materials. Because the PIXIS-XB camera system contains no
user-serviceable parts, Princeton Instruments must do repairs. Should your system need
repair, contact Princeton Instruments Customer Support for instructions (telephone,
e-mail, and address information are provided on page 92 of this manual).
Use the original packing materials whenever shipping the system or system components.
Princeton Instruments Customer Support
Refer to the contact information located on page 92 of this manual.
About this Manual
Manual Organization
This manual provides the user with all the information needed to install a PIXIS-XB
camera and place it in operation. Topics covered include detailed description of the
cameras in the PIXIS-XB family, installation, applications, cleaning, specifications and
more.
Notes:
1. "WinX" is a generic term for WinView/32, WinSpec/32, and WinXTest application
software.
2. In many instances, WinX and LightField use different terms for the same functions or
parameters. Unless the topic is specifically for WinX or LightField, curly brackets
{ } are used to denote a LightField term or location. When the topic applies to both
application programs, the WinX term will be followed by the {LightField term}: for
example, when Continuous Cleans is used, it will be followed by {Clean Until
Trigger}. This convention is also used when a location for setting a parameter is
mentioned: for example, Exposure Time is set on the Experiment Setup|Main tab
{Common Acquisition Settings expander}.
Chapter 1, Introduction provides an overview of the PIXIS-XB cameras.
Chapter 2, System Component Descriptions provides information about the
camera, interface card, cables and application software.
Chapter 3, Initial System Verification cross-references system setup actions
with the relevant manuals and/or manual pages. It also contains system layout
diagrams.
Chapter 4, System Setup provides detailed directions for setting up the camera
for imaging applications and presents over-exposure protection considerations.
Chapter 5, Operation includes step-by-step procedures for verifying system
operation and discusses operational considerations associated with exposure,
readout, and digitization.
Chapter 6, Advanced Topics discusses standard timing {Trigger Response}
modes (Free Run {No Response}, External Sync {Readout Per Trigger}, and
Continuous Cleans {Clean Until Trigger}), Fast and Safe modes, Logic Output
control, Kinetics mode, and Custom modes.
10 PIXIS-XB System Manual Version 2
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.
Warning! Risk of electric shock! The use of this symbol on
equipment 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.
Chapter 7, Troubleshooting provides courses of action to take if you should
have problems with your system.
Appendix A, Specifications includes camera specifications.
Appendix B, Outline Drawings includes outline drawings of the camera and the
CoolCUBEII circulator.
Appendix C, Cross-Referencing of WinX and LightField Terms includes
two alphabetically sorted tables (WinX to LightField and LightField to WinX)
that cross reference terms used in the two applications.
Declaration of Conformity contains the Declaration of Conformity for PIXIS-XB
systems.
Warranty & Service contains the warranty and customer support contact
information.
Safety Related Symbols Used in this Manual
Chapter 2
System Component Descriptions
System Components
Standard Components
A typical air-cooled PIXIS-XB system consists of the camera with a Certificate of
Performance, a power supply, a USB 2.0 interface cable for your computer system, MCX
to BNC adapter cables, and the user manual. A typical liquid-cooled PIXIS-XB system
consists of the camera with a Certificate of Performance, a CoolCUBEII circulator with
hoses, a USB 2.0 interface cable for your computer system, MCX to BNC adapter cables,
and the user manual.
Optional System Components
Optional items include the WinX application software and manual, LightField application
software and manual, and Scientific Imaging ToolKit™ (SITK™) for LabVIEW®.
11
Figure 1. Typical System Components
12 PIXIS-XB System Manual Version 2
PIXIS-XB Camera
CCD Array: The PIXIS-XB camera system offers back-illuminated, deep-depletion CCDs as
well as a front-illuminated, deep-depletion CCD (PIXIS:1300R). The variety of array
sizes allows you to precisely match the sensor to your application. Only scientific-grade
devices are used in order to ensure the highest image fidelity, resolution, and acquisition
flexibility required for scientific X-ray imaging and spectroscopy. Princeton Instruments
has developed exclusive CCDs with unmatched quantum efficiency and low noise to
offer the utmost in sensitivity. Large full wells, square pixels, and 100% fill factors
provide high dynamic range and excellent spatial resolution. Your choice of CCD is
already installed in the camera that you received and has been individually tested.
Cooling: Dark current is reduced in PIXIS-XB camera systems through thermoelectric
cooling of the CCD arrays. Cooling by this method uses a multi-stage Peltier cooler in
combination with air-circulation or circulating coolant. To prevent condensation and
contamination from occurring, cameras cooled this way should be mounted on a vacuum
chamber. Due to CCD size/packaging differences, the lowest achievable temperature can
vary from one PIXIS-XB model to the next. Please refer to the specific system’s data
sheet for cooling performance.
Connectors:
USB 2.0: Control signals and data are transmitted between the
camera and the host computer via the USB port located on the
rear of the camera. As of this printing, you can hot plug the
PIXIS-XB camera whenever the WinX application is not
running (i.e., connect or disconnect from the camera or the
host computer while the camera is powered ON). In the case
of cameras built before November 1, 2005, you must exit the
WinX application and turn the camera power OFF before
connecting the USB cable to or disconnecting it from the
camera or host computer.
Shutter: LEMO® connector provides the shutter drive pulses for driving a UNIBLITZ®
VS25 25 mm external shutter (small array cameras such as PIXIS-XB:400 and 1024) or a
UNIBLITZ CS45 45 mm external shutter (large array cameras such as PIXIS-XB:1300
and 2048). UNIBLITZ XRS6, XRS14, and XRS25 X-ray shutters are supported for
ONLY the large array cameras. Camera power must be OFF before connecting to or
disconnecting from this connector.
LOGIC OUT: 0 to +3.3V programmable logic level output (TTL-compatible). The
output of this connector can be programmed and can also be inverted via the
application software. For detailed information about each output signal, please see
“LOGIC OUT Control” (page 56).
EXT SYNC: 0 to +3.3V Logic level input (TTL-compatible) that has a 10 k pullup
resistor. Allows data acquisition and readout to be synchronized with external events.
Through software, positive or negative (default) edge triggering can be selected.
Power: Depending on the camera, the connector will be as follows:
DIN connector for PIXIS-XB:400 and 1024: 12 VDC (6.6A max) input from
power supply.
LEMO Connect for PIXIS-XB:1300 and 2048: 12 VDC (12.5A max) input
from power supply.
Chapter 2 System Component Descriptions 13
Small Format PIXIS-XB: 400 and 1024
Maximum Power Output: 80 W
Input: 100-240 VAC, 47-63 Hz, 1.9A
Output: 12 VDC at 6.6 A maximum
Large Format PIXIS-XB: 1300 and 2048
Maximum Power Output: 150 W
Input: 100-240 VAC, 50/60 Hz, 2A
Output: 12 VDC at 12.5 A maximum
Fan: Air-cooled cameras contain an internal fan. Its purpose is:
to remove heat from the Peltier device that cools the CCD array and
to cool the electronics.
An internal Peltier device directly cools the cold finger on which the CCD is
mounted. The air drawn into the camera by the internal fan through the back slots on
the side panels and exhausted through the front slots on the side panels then removes
the heat produced by the Peltier device. The fan is always in operation and aircooling of both the Peltier and the internal electronics takes place continuously. 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 sides of the
camera and the laboratory atmosphere.
Coolant Ports: The camera coolant ports (located on side of the camera) are not
labeled. This is because coolant can flow through the camera in either direction. As is
the case with circulating air (see above), circulating coolant removes the heat
produced by the Peltier device. This means of heat removal is designed for vibrationfree data acquisition. For the circulating coolant to function properly, free air
circulation must be maintained between the sides of the CoolCUBEII and the
laboratory atmosphere. Use only the hoses and circulator shipped with your system.
Attaching any other hoses or circulator voids the warranty
PIXIS-XB Power Supply
The receptacle on the power supply should be compatible with the line-voltage line cords
in common use in the region to which the system is shipped. If the power supply
receptacle is incompatible, a compatible adapter should be installed on the line cord,
taking care to maintain the proper polarity to protect the equipment and assure user
safety.
14 PIXIS-XB System Manual Version 2
USB 2.0 Cable: The standard 16.4' (5 m) cable (6050-0494) has USB connectors that
interconnect the "USB 2.0" connector on the rear of the PIXIS-XB with a USB card
installed in the host computer.
MCX to BNC Adapter Cables: Two MCX to BNC adapter cables are provided with
the PIXIS-XB system. These mount to the EXT SYNC and the LOGIC OUT connectors
on the rear of the PIXIS-XB.
Coolant Hoses (Liquid-cooled Systems)
Quick-disconnects that mate to the PIXIS-XB’s coolant ports have been installed on one
end of each hose. Refer to your coolant circulator’s specifications regarding circulator-
compatible hose fittings. If a Princeton Instruments CoolCUBE
circulator is ordered
II
with the camera, hoses are supplied with appropriate connectors on both ends.
Note: Part numbers for the hose, PIXIS-XB fittings, and CoolCUBEII fitting are:
McMaster# MCM 5238K748 (3/8 ID, 5/8 OD tubing);
CPC# MCD1004 (1/4 NPT Valved Coupling Body) and McMaster# MCM 5346K35
(barbed hose fitting adapter for 3/8" hose ID X 1/4" NPTF female pipe) at PIXIS end; and
CPC# NS6D17006 (3/8 hose barb valved in-line coupling body) at CoolCUBEII end.
Cables
Certificate of Performance
Each PIXIS-XB camera has a Certificate of Performance. This certificate states that the
camera system was assembled and tested according to approved Princeton Instruments
procedures. It documents the camera performance data as measured during the testing of
your PIXIS-XB and lists the Sales Order, Purchase Order, and Camera Serial numbers
(useful if you ever need to contact Princeton Instruments Customer Support).
User Manuals
PIXIS-XB System User Manual: This manual describes how to install and use the
PIXIS-XB system components.
WinView/32 or WinSpec/32 User Manual: This manual describes how to install and
use the 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.
LightField® User Manual: This manual describes how to install and use the LightField
application program (for 64-bit Windows Vista
The manual is provided in PDF version on the installation CD and will be installed in the
Princeton Instruments/LightField/Documents subdirectory. Acrobat 7.0 or higher is
required. Additional information is available in the program's on-line help .
Note: You can download current versions of Princeton Instruments manuals at
ftp://ftp.princetoninstruments.com/Public/Manuals/Princeton Instruments/. The most
current versions of Acton manuals are located at
ftp://ftp.princetoninstruments.com/Public/Manuals/Acton/.
®
and Windows
®
7 operating systems).
Chapter 2 System Component Descriptions 15
Optional Components
Application Software
WinX: The PIXIS-XB camera can be operated by using either WinView/32 or
WinSpec/32, Princeton Instrument's 32-bit Windows® software packages designed
specifically for high-end imaging and spectroscopy, respectively. The Princeton
Instruments' software provides comprehensive image/spectral capture and display
functions. The package also facilitates snap-ins to permit advanced operation. Using
the optional built-in macro record function, you can also create and edit your own
macros to automate a variety of operations. WinView and WinSpec take full
advantage of the versatility of the PIXIS-XB camera and even enhance it by making
integration of the detection system into larger experiments or instruments an easy,
straightforward endeavor.
PVCAM®: The standard software interface for cooled CCD cameras from Princeton
Instruments. 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.
Scientific Imaging ToolKit™: SITK™ is a collection of LabVIEW® VIs for
scientific cameras and spectrographs. This third party software can be purchased
from Princeton Instruments.
LightField®: The PIXIS-XB can be operated using LightField, Princeton
Instrument’s 64-bit Windows Vista® and Windows® 7 compatible software package.
LightField combines complete control over Princeton Instruments’ cameras and
spectrographs with easy-to-use tools for experimental setup, data acquisition and
post-processing. LightField makes data integrity priority #1 via automatic saving to
disk, time stamping and retention of both raw and corrected data with full
experimental details saved in each file. LightField works seamlessly in multi-user
facilities, remembering each user’s hardware and software configurations and
tailoring options and features accordingly.
PICam™: The standard 64-bit software interface for cooled CCD cameras from
Princeton Instruments. PICam is an ANSI C library of camera control and data
acquisition functions. Currently, the interface supports Windows Vista and
Windows 7.
Note: PIXIS-XB may also be operated by several other third-party software
packages. Please check with the providers of the packages for compatibility and
support information.
16 PIXIS-XB System Manual Version 2
Fiber Optic Extender Kit
The specially designed fiber optic data interface kit allows the computer and the USB2.0
camera head to be separated by up to 500 meters without the loss of data. The kit consists
of two compact, high speed transceivers (interface modules) for completely transparent
operation between the host computer and the camera. The FO kit is ideal for hazardous or
high EMI environments. This optional kit supports PIXIS, Spec-10, VersArray and
PI-MAX family of products as well Acton Series spectrographs with USB2.0 data
interface.
CoolCUBE
with PIXIS-compatible Hoses (PN 7567-0002)
II
Liquid-cooled PIXIS-XB cameras provide a low vibration system for data acquisition.
Instead of using a fan to remove heat, these cameras incorporate a closed loop system of
circulating fluid. The CoolCUBEII circulator unit continuously pumps the 50:50 mixture
of room temperature (23ºC) water and ethylene glycol. To prevent voiding the warranty,
use only the circulator and hoses shipped with your system.
Chapter 3
Action
Reference
1. If the system components have not already been unpacked, unpack
them and inspect their carton(s) and the system components for
in-transit damage.
Chapter 4 System Setup,
page 19
2. Verify that all system components have been received.
Chapter 4 System Setup,
page 20
3. If the components show no signs of damage, verify that the
appropriate power cord has been supplied with the power supply.
Chapter 4 System Setup,
page 20
4. If the application software is not already installed in the host
computer, install it.
Chapter 4 System Setup,
page 22 & Software manual
5. If the USB2 interface card is not already installed in the host
computer, install it. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions
Manufacturer’s instructions
6. With the power supply disconnected from the camera, connect the USB
cable to the USB port at the rear of the camera and to the USB port at
the computer.
7. Air-Cooled System: Plug the power supply into the rear of the
camera and plug the power supply into the power source.
Liquid-Cooled System: Plug the power supply into the rear of the
camera and plug the power supply into the power source. Make the
hose connections to the camera. Plug the circulator into the power
source. Add coolant if necessary. Turn on the circulator.
Chapter 4 System Setup,
page 24
8. Turn the camera ON.
9. Turn on the computer and begin running the application software.
Software manual
10. Enter the hardware setup information or load the defaults from the
camera.
Chapter 5 Operation,
page 26
11. When the system reaches temperature lock, begin acquiring data in
focus mode.
Chapter 5 Operation,
page 32 or page 35
12. After verifying that the camera sees, turn the camera supply OFF. If
there is a circulator attached and running, turn it off as well.
Initial System Verification
The list and diagrams below briefly describe the sequence of actions required
to install your system and verify operation. Refer to the indicated references
for more detailed information.
17
18 PIXIS-XB System Manual Version 2
Figure 2. Initial System Checkout Imaging Experiment Layout (Air-cooled Camera)
Figure 3. Initial System Checkout Imaging Experiment Layout (Liquid-cooled Camera)
Chapter 4
System Setup
To minimize risk to users or to system equipment, turn the system OFF before any cables
are connected or disconnected.
Introduction
A PIXIS-XB camera system consists of three hardware components:
Camera head
Power supply
Cables
All of the components and cables required for your configuration are included with your
shipment. Your PIXIS-XB system has been specially configured and calibrated to match
the camera options specified at the time of purchase. The CCD and coating you ordered
have been installed in the camera head.
Keep all of the original packing materials so you can safely ship the PIXIS-XB system to
another location or return it for service if necessary. If you have any difficulty with any
step of the instructions, call Princeton Instruments Customer Support. For contact
information, refer to page 92.
Hardware installation may consist of:
Installing an interface card, if the appropriate card is not already resident.
Mounting to a vacuum chamber.
Connecting the camera to external triggering or monitoring equipment.
Software installation depends on the application software you will be using to run the
system. Refer to the manual supplied with the software for information about installing
and setting it up.
Unpacking the System
During the unpacking, check the system components for possible signs of shipping
damage. If there are any, notify Princeton Instruments immediately and file a claim with
the carrier. If damage is not apparent but the camera cannot be operated, internal damage
may have occurred in shipment. After unpacking the system, 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.
19
20 PIXIS-XB System Manual Version 2
Checking the Equipment and Parts Inventory
Confirm that you have all of the equipment and parts required to set up the PIXIS-XB
system. A complete system consists of:
Standard System:
Camera and Power Supply
CoolCUBEII Circulator and hoses (for liquid-cooled system)
Host Computer: Can be purchased from Princeton Instruments or provided by
user. For enhanced performance, a fast hard drive (10,000 rpm) and 2GB RAM is
recommended.
Operating System:
WinView/32 or WinSpec/32: Windows XP (32-bit, SP3 or later) or Vista
(32-bit required).
LightField: Windows Vista (64-bit) or Windows 7 (64-bit)
USB cable: Five (5) meter cable (6050-0494) is standard.
PIXIS-XB System User Manual
Options:
Application Software:
WinView/32 or WinSpec32 (Ver. 2.5.25 or later) CD-ROM (optional)
LightField CD-ROM (optional)
Software User Manual (provided with application software)
Fiber Optic Extender Kit
System Requirements
Environmental Requirements
Storage temperature: 55°C
Operating environment temperature: 5ºC to +30ºC; the environment temperature
range over which system specifications can be guaranteed is +18ºC to +23ºC
Relative humidity 50%; non-condensing
Note: The cooling performance may degrade if the room temperature is above
+23°C.
Ventilation: For the PIXIS-XB camera, allow at least one inch clearance for the side
air vents. Where the camera is inside an enclosure, > 30 cfm air circulation and heat
dissipation of 100 W is required.
Power: The PIXIS-XB camera receives its power from the supplied self-switching DC
power supply which in turn plugs into an AC power source.
Host Computer
Note: Computers and operating systems all undergo frequent revision. The following
information is only intended to give minimum computer requirements. Please contact the
factory to determine your specific needs.
Chapter 4 System Setup 21
WinX Requirements
Windows® XP (32-bit with SP3 or later) or Vista (32-bit)
2 GHz Pentium® 4 (or greater).
Native USB 2.0 support on the mother board or USB 2.0 Interface Card (Orange
Micro 70USB90011 USB2.0 PCI is recommended for desktop; SIIG, Inc. USB
2.0 PC Card, Model US2246 for laptop)
Minimum of 1 GB RAM (or greater).
CD-ROM drive.
Hard disk with a minimum of 1 Gbyte available. A complete installation of the
program files takes about 17-50 Mbytes and the remainder is required for data
storage, depending on the number and size of images/spectra collected. Disk level
compression programs are not recommended. Drive speed of 10,000 RPM
recommended.
Super VGA monitor and graphics card supporting at least 65,535 colors with at
least 128 Mbyte of memory. Memory requirement is dependent on desired
display resolution.
Mouse or other pointing device.
LightField Requirements
Windows Vista® (64-bit) or Windows® 7 (64-bit)
2 GHz dual core processor
4 GB RAM (or greater)
CD-ROM drive
Super VGA monitor and graphics card supporting at least 65535 colors with at
least 128 Mbyte of memory. Memory requirement is dependent on desired
display resolution.
Hard disk with a minimum of 1 Gbyte available for installation. Additional space
is required for data storage: the amount of space required depends on the number
and size of images/spectra collected. Disk level compression programs are not
recommended. Drive speed of 10,000 RPM recommended.
Mouse or other pointing device.
Note: The above requirements are the minimum for operating a PIXIS-XB camera.
A faster computer with 5GB or larger memory (RAM) will greatly enhance the
software performance during live mode operations.
22 PIXIS-XB System Manual Version 2
Windows Version
USB INF Filename
Located in
"Windows"/INF
directory*
USB Properties DLL
Located in
"Windows"/System32
directory
USB Device Driver Name
Located in
"Windows"/System32/Drivers
directory
Windows® XP
Vista (32-bit)
Windows 7 (32-bit)
rsusb2k.inf (in
WINDOWS/INF,
for example)
apausbprop.dll (in
WINDOWS/System32,
for example)
apausb.sys (in WINDOWS/
System32/Drivers, for example)
* The INF directory may be hidden.
Figure 4. WinView Installation:
Select Installation Type dialog
Installing the Application Software
Notes:
1. Before proceeding, please check to see if your computer supports USB 2.0. If it does
not, install a USB 2.0 interface card. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. Leave the USB cable disconnected from the camera until you have installed
WinView/32.
WinX
The following installation is performed via the WinView/32 or WinSpec/32 software
installation CD.
1. On the Select Installation Type
dialog (see Figure 4), click on the
Typical radio button to install the
required drivers and the most
installed program files. Select the
Custom button if you would like to
choose among the available program
files or do not want to install the
drivers. Complete installs all of the
application features.
The required INF, DLL, and USB
driver files will be placed in the
appropriate “Windows” directories (see
Table 1 for locations).
2. Make sure the camera is connected to the host computer and that the camera power
supply is turned on.
3. Reboot the computer.
4. At bootup, Windows will detect the Princeton Instruments USB2 Interface hardware
in the PIXIS-XB. 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.
Table 1. USB Driver Files and Locations
Chapter 4 System Setup 23
LightField
The following installation is performed via the LightField software installation CD.
1. Before starting the installation:
Verify that the computer operating system is Windows Vista (64-bit) or
Windows 7 (64-bit).
Confirm that your computer supports USB 2.0. If it does not, please refer to
the manufacturer’s instructions for installing a USB 2.0 interface card.
If a hard key was supplied with the software, internet connectivity is not
required. For earlier software releases, Internet connection was usually
required for product activation.
2. Insert the CD and follow the installation wizard prompts.
Figure 5. LightField Installation Wizard dialog
3. After the installation finishes, reboot the computer.
4. Connect the PIXIS system components to your computer and power them on.
5. Start LightField, activate it, and begin setting up your experiment.
24 PIXIS-XB System Manual Version 2
Mounting the Camera
On the bottom of the camera near the front is a threaded hole (1/4″-20 tap,0.25″ deep)
that can be used to mount the camera. A ¼-20 to M6x0.8 thread adapter is also supplied.
Figure 6 shows the location of the hole. The distance of the hole from the front of the
camera is either 1.00” [25.4 mm] or 1.55” [39.2 mm].
Figure 6. Position of Camera Mounting Hole
Princeton Instruments does not supply a vacuum interface flange but has provided a
dimensioned drawing with the minimum design requirements for a customer-supplied
flange (see page 83, of Appendix B).
Chapter 4 System Setup 25
Making the Camera-Circulator Connections for a CoolCUBEII
For liquid-cooled cameras, the CoolCUBEII circulator provides a
vibration-free method of heat removal.
1. Make sure the camera and the circulator power switches are
turned off.
2. Make sure the circulator is 6 inches (150 mm) or more below
the camera. The vertical distance should not exceed 10 feet (3
m). Typically, the camera is at table height and the circulator
is on the floor.
3. Make the coolant connections between the circulator and the camera. It does not
matter which hose from the circulator is plugged into a coolant port on the camera.
4. It is recommended that hoses be secured to the camera hose barbs with the clamp
supplied.
Notes:
1. Make sure that there are no kinks in the hoses that impede the coolant flow. Lack
of sufficient flow can seriously harm the detector and any resulting damage is not
covered under warranty.
2. Damage caused by water leaking into the PIXIS-XB voids the warranty.
5. Unscrew the reservoir cap (on top of the CoolCUBEII) and make
sure that the coolant reservoir contains coolant. If additional
coolant is required, fill with a 50:50 mixture of water and ethylene
glycol.
6. Screw the reservoir cap back in.
7. Plug the circulator into a 100-240 VAC, 47-63 Hz power source.
8. Turn the circulator on. Make sure there are no leaks or air bubbles in the hoses.
Note: Small air bubbles (about the size of bubbles in soda) are common in the
CoolCUBEII especially at start up and do not prevent normal operation.
If there are no problems, continue to Step 9.
If there are leaks or air bubbles, turn the circulator off and correct the problem(s)
by securing the hoses or adding more coolant to the reservoir. Turn the circulator
back on. Recheck and if there are no problems, continue to Step 9.
9. Turn the camera on.
10. Start the application software.
26 PIXIS-XB System Manual Version 2
Entering the Default Camera System Parameters
The following instructions assume that you have performed the computer interface
installation.
WinX
1. Make sure the PIXIS-XB is connected to the host computer and that it is turned
on.
2. Run the WinX application. The Camera Detection wizard will automatically
run if 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 to start the wizard.
3. On the Welcome dialog (Figure 7), leave the checkbox unselected and click on
Next.
Figure 7. Camera Detection Wizard - Welcome dialog
4. Follow the instructions on the dialogs to perform the initial hardware setup: this
wizard enters default parameters on the Hardware Setup dialog tabs and gives
you an opportunity to acquire a test image to confirm the system is working.
Note: For a step-by-step procedure on basic system operation, refer to the "First Light"
section starting on page 30.
LightField
1. Make sure the PIXIS-XB is connected to the host computer and that the camera
power supply is turned on.
2. Start LightField.
3. While LightField is starting up, it will detect the available device(s) and load the
appropriate icons into the Available Devices area in the Experiment workspace.
4. When you drag an icon into the Experiment Devices area, the appropriate
expanders will be loaded into the Experiment Settings stack on the lefthand side
of the window.
Chapter 4 System Setup 27
Figure 8. LightField Experiment Workspace
5. Because this is a new experiment, the default settings will automatically be
entered for the experiment device(s). These settings will allow you to begin
previewing (Run button) or acquiring (Acquire button) data.
Note: For a step-by-step procedure on basic system operation, refer to the "First Light"
section starting on page 32.
28 PIXIS-XB System Manual Version 2
WARNING!
Caution
Connecting an External Shutter
Disconnecting or connecting the shutter cable to the camera while the camera is ON
can destroy the shutter or the shutter driver in the camera!
Introduction
While PIXIS-XB cameras do not have an internal shutter, there is provision for
connecting the following shutters to the Shutter connector on the rear of the specified
PIXIS-XB model:
PIXIS-XB:400 and 1024: UNIBLITZ VS25 (25 mm) external slit shutter.
PIXIS-XB:1300 and 2048: UNIBLITZ CS45 (45 mm) external slit shutter; and
UNIBLITZ XRS6, XRS14, and XRS25 X-ray shutters.
For the latest information on UNIBLITZ shutters by Vincent Associates, visit
www.uniblitz.com.
Electromechanical shutters typically have a lifetime of about a million cycles. Avoid
running the shutter unnecessarily. Also avoid using shorter exposure times and higher
repetition rates than are required.
External Shutter Cable Connection
1. Verify that the PIXIS-XB camera is turned OFF (i.e., the power supply is
switched OFF).
2. Connect the shutter cable from the external shutter (camera-dependent, see
Introduction, above) shutter to the LEMO® connector at the rear of the camera.
See page 76 for additional information.
3. Power the PIXIS-XB camera on.
Connecting/Disconnecting the PIXIS-XB USB Cable
As of November 1, 2005, you can hot plug the PIXIS-XB camera whenever the WinX
application is not running (i.e., connect or disconnect from the camera or the host computer
while the camera is powered ON). In the case of cameras built before November 1, 2005, you
must exit the WinX application and turn the camera power OFF before connecting the USB
cable to or disconnecting it from the camera or host computer.
Chapter 5
Figure 9. Block Diagram of
PIXIS-XB System
Operation
Introduction
Once the PIXIS-XB camera has been installed as explained in
the preceding chapters, operation of the camera is
straightforward. In most applications you simply establish
optimum performance using the Focus mode (in
WinView/32, for example), 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.
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 are displayed
and/or stored via the application software. This sequence
is illustrated by the block diagram shown in Figure 9.
Whether or not the data are displayed and/or stored
depends on the data collection operation that has been
selected in the application software. In WinX and
LightField, the data collection operations use the
Experiment Setup parameters to establish the exposure
time (the period when signal of interest is allowed to accumulate on the CCD). Focus
{Preview} 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 {Preview} mode, the number of frames is 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. In WinX, the last frame acquired
before Stop is selected can be stored; in LightField, this frame cannot be stored.
Focus {Preview} 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 cross-sections off, and with Zoom 1:1 selected.
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 may eventually occur. In WinX, this could only happen in
Fast Mode operation.
29
Loading...