Princeton Instruments has introduced its PyLoN series 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 utilising 1,340 x 100 and 1,340 x 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 industry-leading 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.
The CCDs used in the PyLoN:100 and PyLoN:400 cameras each feature 20 x 20µm 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 highest available sensitivity in the UV and NIR while suppressing the etaloning that occurs in standard back-illuminated CCDs.
The PyLoN platform delivers analogue-to-digital conversion (ADC) rates of up to 4MHz, with digital bias stabilisation and correlated double sampling for decreased read noise and improved linearity. Kinetics mode allows microsecond-resolved kinetic spectral acquisition, and custom sensor mode increases control over the camera readout, enabling spectral rates in excess of 1000 frames per second.