Q Imaging Rolera Thunder User Manual

U S E R M A N U A L

DIGITAL IMAGING MADE EASY

User Manual for ROLERA Thunder

Rolera Thunder User Manual i

Rolera Thunder User Manual

Applicability

This document applies to the Rolera Thunder camera. For the latest updates, please visit WWW.QIMAGING.COM

Notice of Copyright

Copyright© 2011 Quantitative Imaging Corporation. All rights reserved. Unauthorized duplication of this
document is prohibited.

Trademarks and Proprietary Names

QImaging, Rolera, and QCapture are trademarks of QImaging. Product names mentioned in this document
may be trademarks or registered trademarks of QImaging or other hardware, software, or service providers
and are used herein for identification purposes only. Microsoft and Windows are registered trademarks in
the U.S. and other countries of Microsoft Corporation and are used herein for identification purposes only.

QImaging Corporation Address Information

19535 56th Avenue,
Suite 101
Surrey, BC, Canada V3S 6K3

604.530.5800

WWW.QIMAGING.COM

QImaging Technical Support

.

Technical support is available to all registered users of QImaging products from 9am to 5pm Pacific Standard
Time.

[e-mail]

800.874.9789

WWW.QIMAGING.COM/SUPPORT/CONTACT/

Rolera Thunder User Manual ii

Table of Contents

Chapter 1 Overview ............................................................................................................... 1

Introduction ................................................................................................................................. 1

Technology Introduction .............................................................................................................. 1

System Components ................................................................................................................... 2

About This Manual ...................................................................................................................... 3

Precautions .................................................................................................................................. 3

Environmental Requirements ...................................................................................................... 4

Storage Requirements ................................................................................................................. 4

Microscopes, Lenses, and Tripods .............................................................................................. 4

Repairs ......................................................................................................................................... 4

Cleaning ....................................................................................................................................... 4

Chapter 2 System Installation ................................................................................................. 5

Introduction ................................................................................................................................. 5

Software Compatibility Requirements ......................................................................................... 5

Host Computer Requirements ..................................................................................................... 6

Multiple Cameras ......................................................................................................................... 6

Software Installation .................................................................................................................... 6

Installing the FireWire Interface Card ........................................................................................ 7

Connecting Your Rolera Thunder Camera ................................................................................... 7

To connect your Rolera Thunder camera ............................................................................. 7

Adjusting the C Mount Adapter ................................................................................................... 8

Travel Distance ..................................................................................................................... 8

Chapter 3 Operating Features .................................................................................................. 9

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

On-Chip Multiplication Gain ................................................................................................. 9

Offset (bias) .......................................................................................................................... 9

Exposure- Readout Modes.................................................................................................... 9

Non-Overlap Mode ............................................................................................................. 10

Example: Non-Overlap Mode ............................................................................................ 11

Overlap Mode (Simultaneous Exposure-Readout) ............................................................ 12

Triggered Operation ........................................................................................................... 14

Trigger-first Mode ............................................................................................................... 14

Strobe Mode ....................................................................................................................... 15

Bulb Mode .......................................................................................................................... 15

Conversion Gain .................................................................................................................. 16

Readout Speed (Typical) ..................................................................................................... 16

Binning ................................................................................................................................ 16

Rolera Thunder Features ........................................................................................................... 17

Dual-Readout Port Operation ............................................................................................. 18

Conversion Gain ................................................................................................................. 19

Readout Speed (typical) ...................................................................................................... 19

Binning ................................................................................................................................ 20

Rolera Thunder Application Examples ................................................................................ 20

Application Settings Summary ............................................................................................ 21

Chapter 4 Troubleshooting .................................................................................................... 22

System Does Not Boot Normally ........................................................................................ 22

Rolera Thunder User Manual iii

New Hardware Found Dialog Box Does Not Appear (Windows 2000/XP) ......................... 22

Images Not Displayed ........................................................................................................ 23

Camera Running Too Warm ................................................................................................ 23

PVCAM Error Message Appears .......................................................................................... 23

Lengthy Pauses During Imaging .......................................................................................... 23

Rolera Thunder Will Not Image When Attached to Certain Dual-processor or

Hyperthreading-capable PCs .............................................................................................. 23

Chapter 5 Basic Specifications ................................................................................................ 24

CCD Specifications and Orientation ........................................................................................... 24

Connectors ................................................................................................................................. 25

Power Connector Pinout ..................................................................................................... 25

I/O Connector Pinout .......................................................................................................... 26

Power Supply Specifications and Dimensions ........................................................................... 27

Index ..................................................................................................................................... 28

Figures

Figure 1. Comparison of Traditional CCD and Rolera Thunder CCD Array Structures ................2

Figure 2. Rolera Thunder Camera and DATA Cable ....................................................................2

Figure 3. FireWire interface Card ................................................................................................3

Figure 4. DATA Cable ...................................................................................................................7

Figure 5. Rolera Thunder Rear Panel ..........................................................................................8

Figure 6. Adjustable C-Mount Adapter .......................................................................................8

Figure 7. Non-overlap Mode Operational Sequence ................................................................10

Figure 8. Required Settings for Non-Overlap Mode Operation ................................................11

Figure 9. Timing Diagram for Non-Overlap Mode .....................................................................11

Figure 10. Required Settings for Overlap Mode Operation ......................................................12

Figure 11. Timing Diagram for Overlap Mode when Exposure Time < Readout Time .............13

Figure 12. Timing Diagram for Overlap Mode when Exposure Time > Readout Time .............13

Figure 13. Trigger-First Mode Timing Diagram: Overlap Mode ................................................14

Figure 14. Trigger-First Mode Timing Diagram: Non-Overlap Mode ........................................14

Figure 15. Strobe Mode Timing Diagram ..................................................................................15

Figure 16. Bulb Mode Timing Diagram ......................................................................................15

Figure 17. DAC Setting vs. Charge Multiplication Gain for Rolera Thunder ..............................17

Figure 18. Rolera Thunder CCD Array Structure ......................................................................18

Figure 19. Software Selection of Readout Port .........................................................................18

Figure 23. Rolera Thunder CCD Orientation .............................................................................24

Figure 24. Rolera Thunder Rear Panel ......................................................................................25

Figure 25. Power Connector Pinout ..........................................................................................25

Figure 26. Input/Output Connector ..........................................................................................26

Figure 27. Power Supply Front/Side & Top Views ....................................................................27

Tables

Table 1. Rolera Thunder Readout Speeds and Typical Conversion Gains .................................19

Table 2. Application Type and Rolera Thunder Setup Parameters ...........................................21

Table 3. CCD Specifications .......................................................................................................24

Table 4. Input/Output Definitions .............................................................................................26

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Rolera Thunder User Manual v

Chapter 1

Overview

Introduction

The QImaging® Rolera Thunder camera employs an advanced CCD technology called "impact
ionization" to achieve charge multiplication gain above the read noise. As a result, the cameras
offer unparalleled sensitivity even at high frame rates.

Rolera Thunder cameras are most suited for high speed and/or low-light level imaging
applications such as single molecule fluorescence, ion imaging, and adaptive optics. With the
traditional readout amplifier, the Rolera Thunder can also be used for standard fluorescence and
imaging applications requiring higher dynamic range.

Currently the Rolera Thunder line consists of the following camera model:

• Rolera Thunder

o Uses a 512x512 Back-illuminated CCD with 16x16 µm pixels.
o Has two readout amplifiers – one that offers charge multiplication gain and

another for traditional readout.

Technology
Introduction

The principal difference between a charge-multiplying CCD and a traditional CCD is the presence
of an extended serial register in the new device (see Figure 1). Electrons are accelerated from
pixel to pixel in the extended portion of the serial register (also referred to as a multiplication
register) by applying higher-than-typical CCD clock voltages. This causes secondary electrons to
be generated in the silicon by impact ionization. The degree of multiplication gain is controlled
by increasing or decreasing clock voltages for this register (gain is exponentially proportional to
the voltage). Although the probability of generating secondary electrons is fairly low (typically

0.01 per stage), over the large number of stages of a typical multiplication register, the total gain
can be quite high.

This technology combines the ease of use and robustness of a traditional CCD with the gain
capabilities of an intensified CCD in a single device. The combination of this technology with
frame-transfer readout makes the Rolera Thunder cameras excellent choices for experiments
where fast framing and low light sensitivity are required.

Rolera Thunder Users Manual 1

Traditional CCD

Figure 1. Comparison of Traditional CCD and Rolera Thunder CCD Array Structures

Rolera Thunder CCD

The Rolera Thunder also offers a non-multiplication readout similar to the one available in
traditional CCD cameras. This makes these more versatile cameras that can be used for standard
imaging applications requiring higher dynamic range.

System
Components

In addition to the components shown below and on the next page, the Rolera Thunder package
also includes PVCAM® drivers.

Figure 2. Rolera Thunder Camera and DATA Cable

Rolera Thunder User Manual 2

About This
Manual

Figure 3. FireWire interface Card

The Rolera Thunder User Manual is divided into five chapters. It is suggested that you read the
entire manual before operating the camera in order to ensure proper use. The chapter contents
are briefly described below.

Note: The information in these chapters applies only to the Rolera Thunder and is currently not applicable to
any other QImaging camera.

• Overview — This is a basic overview of the Rolera Thunder that includes precautions

and general maintenance/equipment information.

• System Installation — Instructions for connecting your Rolera Thunder camera to

your computer via the Rolera Thunder FireWire interface card.

• Operating Features — Discusses Rolera Thunder features such as on-chip

multiplication gain, readout, and trigger modes. Provides additional information on
dual-readout mode feature available.

• Troubleshooting — Provides answers to camera system problems.

• Basic Specifications — Provides specifications for Rolera Thunder system

components.

Precautions

The CCD and other system electronics are extremely sensitive to electrostatic discharge (ESD). To
avoid permanently damaging the system, please observe the following precautions:

• If you are using high-voltage equipment (such as an arc lamp) with your camera

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

• Although you should switch off the camera’s power before disconnecting any

Rolera Thunder User Manual 3

system, be sure to turn the camera power on last and power the camera off first.

camera system cable, you do not need to power off your computer to detach the
cables.

Environmental
Requirements

Storage
Requirements

• 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.

• Always leave one inch of space around the camera’s external cooling fins for airflow.

• Never open the camera. There are no user-serviceable parts inside the Rolera

Thunder camera. Opening the camera voids the warranty.

• Use only the FireWire interface card, cables, and power supply designated for this

camera system. Using non- Rolera Thunder cables, FireWire interface cards, or
power supplies may result in permanent damage to your system.

• Do not use a C-mount lens with optics that extend behind the lens flange.

The Rolera Thunder camera system should be operated in a clean, dry environment. The camera
system’s ambient operating temperature is 0°C to 30°C with 80% relative humidity, non­condensing.

Store the Rolera Thunder camera system in its original containers. To protect the system from
excessive heat, cold, and moisture, store at an ambient temperature between -20°C and 60°C
with a relative humidity of 0% to 90%, noncondensing.

Microscopes,
Lenses, and
Tripods

Repairs

Cleaning

The camera has a standard threaded video mount and can be mounted to any microscope that
accepts a standard C-mount adapter. The camera also allows you to install any lens that is
compatible with a standard threaded video mount as long as its optics do not extend behind the
flange of the lens. The Rolera Thunder camera can be mounted to a tripod using the tripod
mounting attachment located on the bottom of the camera.

The Rolera Thunder C-mount adapter is designed so it can be screwed in or out to change the
focal depth. Once the focal depth as been changed, the adapter is secured by two setscrews. See
Adjusting the C Mount Adapter (Chapter 2) for more information.

The Rolera Thunder camera system contains no user-serviceable parts. Repairs must be done by
QImaging. Should your camera system need repair, contact QImaging Customer Service. Please
save the original packing materials so you can safely ship the camera system to another location
or return it for repairs if necessary.

Note: Do not open the camera. Opening the Rolera Thunder camera voids the warranty.

Clean exterior surfaces of the camera with a dry, lint-free cloth. To remove stains, contact
QImaging Customer Service. To clean the camera’s imaging window, use only a filtered
compressed-air source. Hand-held cans are not recommended, as they may spray propellant
onto the window. Do not touch the window.

Rolera Thunder User Manual 4

Chapter 2

System Installation

Carefully review the Precautions section in the previous chapter before performing any of the procedures
outlined here. Again, use only a Rolera Thunder data cable and a Rolera Thunder FireWire interface card
with your Rolera Thunder camera. Using a different cable or interface card may result in permanent damage
to your system.

Introduction

Your Rolera Thunder camera system has the following hardware components:

• Camera head

• FireWire interface card

• Data cable

• Power supply with power cord

• Red test lens

• CD-ROM

• Quick installation Guide

Rolera Thunder system components are linked by the data cable and controlled by your host
computer system. All of these hardware components should be included with your shipment.
Refer to the information and figures in the System Components section (Chapter 1).

Keep all the original packing materials so you can safely ship the Rolera Thunder system to
another location or return it for service if necessary.

If you have any difficulty with any step of the instructions, call QImaging Customer Service.

Software
Compatibility
Requirements

The Rolera Thunder package includes the PVCAM drivers designed for use with this camera.
All other imaging software must also be PVCAM-compatible. For full access to Rolera Thunder

hardware functions, the current version of PVCAM must be used.

Rolera Thunder User Manual 5