Princeton Instruments has introduced the PyLoN series, a brand new line of controllerless, cryogenically cooled CCD cameras designed for quantitative spectroscopy applications that demand the highest possible sensitivity. The first commercially available models in the new series are the PyLoN:100 and PyLoN:400, dual-amplifier cameras that utilize 1340×100 and 1340×400 sensors, respectively. Soon-to-be-introduced models include the dual-amplifier PyLoN: 2K and the single-amplifier PyLoN: 256.
In creating the new PyLoN platform, Princeton Instruments redesigned its Spec-10 family of cameras to remove the external controller, increasing experimental flexibility while further improving the ultra-low-noise electronics. Liquid nitrogen cooling in the new cameras virtually eliminates dark current and indium metal seals enhance vacuum longevity. Binning noise has been further reduced from the already low levels in PI’s Spec-10 platform.
Both new PyLoN cameras provide dual amplifiers and software-selectable gains that permit operation either in high-sensitivity mode, which is suitable for applications such as Raman or single-molecule spectroscopy, or in high-capacity mode, which is suited to applications like fluorescence spectroscopy.
Additionally, the 2-mm array height of the PyLoN:100 facilitates rapid spectral acquisition, whereas the 8-mm array height of the PyLoN:400 is useful for multiplexed spectroscopy.
The CCDs utilized in the PyLoN:100 and PyLoN:400 cameras each feature 20×20 ?m pixels, offering researchers an optimal combination of high resolution and wide dynamic range. Select PyLoN cameras also feature Princeton Instruments’ eXcelon technology, which delivers the high sensitivity in the UV and NIR while suppressing the etaloning that occurs in standard back-illuminated CCDs.
The PyLoN platform delivers analog-to-digital conversion (ADC) rates of up to 4 MHz, with digital bias stabilization and correlated double sampling for decreased read noise and improved linearity. Kinetics mode allows microsecond-resolved kinetic spectral acquisition; custom sensor mode increases control over the camera readout, enabling spectral rates in excess of 1000 frames per second.
PyLoN cameras operate on 32-bit and 64-bit Microsoft Windows operating systems and are fully supported by LightField, Princeton Instruments’ 64-bit data acquisition software featuring patent-pending IntelliCal wavelength and intensity calibration packages. The latest Gigabit Ethernet (GigE) interface allows remote camera operation via a single cable without the need for custom frame grabbers. PyLoN cameras are available with or without a 40 mm shutter.
