Hamamatsu introduces the new ORCA-Flash2.8, our first high-sensitivity digital camera based on a next-generation scientific CMOS image sensor. Designed for low-light imaging at high frame rates, this new camera combines high resolution, high sensitivity, high speed, and low noise at an affordable price.

At the camera's core is a new scientific CMOS image sensor, the FL-280, which features 2.8 megapixels and a pixel size of 3.63 x 3.63 µm, ensuring high resolution. The sensor's wavelength sensitivity ranges from UV to visible, with peak sensitivity (over 60% QE) at about 450-500 nm. In addition to high sensitivity, the sensor features low readout noise, typically 3 electrons r.m.s. The sensor's design keeps the readout noise minimal even at very fast readout speeds, unlike traditional image sensors. The FL-280 sensor also has low dark current. Because of its intrinsically low dark current, the sensor requires cooling to +5°C only.

Built for high-speed imaging, the ORCA-Flash2.8's readout speed ranges from 45 frames/second at full resolution up to 1273 frames/second with sub-array readout. Other features of the camera include external trigger functions, real-time corrections, and analog gain. The camera is designed for quantitative measurements with 12-bit output, and it interfaces with a PC using a CameraLink frame grabber board (included with the camera).

The ORCA-Flash2.8 is suitable for a wide variety of applications. These include life science imaging such as ratio imaging, FRET, FISH, TIRF microscopy, and real-time confocal microscopy. Other applications include semiconductor inspection and industrial imaging.

Hamamatsu is exhibiting the ORCA-Flash2.8 at Analytica 2010 in Munich, Germany, from March 23 to March 26 (booth number A2 420). Demo cameras will be available in May 2010.

Date: March 18, 2010
Source: Hamamatsu