Princeton
Instruments (PI) is pleased to announce the addition of PI-MAX3-MG models
to its popular line of intensified CCD (ICCD) cameras. The new MG models feature
the exclusive “MCP Gating” technology to provide unprecedented sensitivity
and gating speed combination. The new cameras are specially suited to UV-Blue
applications such as PLIF imaging in combustion research.
Manjul Shah, Applications Specialist at PI states, ”Typically ICCD cameras
can achieve <5 nsec gating speed using intensifiers based on multi-alkali
photocathodes. However, in order to achieve fast gate speeds, additional metal
under-layers may need to be added, which reduces the all important QE. On the
other hand, slow gate tubes, without the use of metal under-layers, have high
sensitivity but can only gate down to 200nsec. The PI-MAX3 MG is the first integrated
ICCD camera to combine best of the both – QE of slow gate tubes and gating
speed of <8nsec. It is ideal for time resolved UV-Blue applications using
pulsed lasers where high sensitivity and fast gating are important.”
The PI-MAX 3 line features built-in SuperSynchro™ timing generator that
makes setting up complex time-resolved imaging experiments easy. Researchers
can use SuperSynchro to store a sequence of gate delays and widths and execute
them quickly to generate time vs. intensity data with just a few clicks of a
mouse. SuperSynchro also provides the lowest insertion delay on the market.
Another novel PI-MAX 3 feature, SyncMaster™ technology, helps reduce
lab clutter by eliminating the need for an external timing generator. SyncMaster
allows the camera to output two continuously running pulse trains to trigger
pulsed lasers without interruption, or to trigger Q-switched flashlamp lasers
or double-pulse lasers separately. Because the camera’s programmable gate
widths and delays are generated from the same master clock, the resultant jitter
is the lowest possible (typically determined by the laser jitter). The latest
Gigabit Ethernet interface allows the PI-MAX 3 to be operated from distances
greater than 50 meters away, important for applications such as combustion or
plasma studies in which the camera must be kept at a safe distance from host
computers.
PI-MAX3-MG models are available in both 1024x1024 (1024i) and 1024x256 formats.
All PI-MAX 3 cameras use a windowless design for maximum light throughput. The
PI-MAX3 camera also features innovative photocathode cooling for ultra-low-light
or single-photon imaging as well as special readout modes for single-shot measurements
and particle imaging velocimetry (PIV) applications.