High Intensity Light Damage; Precautions - Princeton Instruments PI-MAX4 Manual

Chapter 1
1.4.3

High Intensity Light Damage

When biased ON, intensified CCD cameras (e.g., PI-MAX4,) can be irreparably damaged if
continuously exposed to light levels greater than twice the A/D saturation level. Therefore,
it is
critical
Although intensified cameras are less prone to damage from background light when
operated in gated mode, they are at
sources such as a laser. High-intensity sources can damage the intensifier before protection
circuits have time to respond, or even cause spot damage without the protection circuits
acting at all.
If a sustained alarm indication occurs when the camera is turned on, immediately switch the
switch on the back of the PI-MAX4 to the
I.I.T.
and only switch the
If the alarm sounds continuously even when the illumination level is adequately low, shut
the system down and contact the factory for guidance.
1.5

Precautions

To prevent permanently damaging the system, please observe the following precautions:
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Introduction
that conditions not be created which could result in damage to the intensifier.
switch to
I.I.T.
Always switch off and unplug the PI-MAX4 power supply before changing your
system configuration in any way.
Whenever you turn the PI-MAX4 power supply OFF, be sure to leave it OFF for at
least 30 seconds before switching it back ON. If you switch it ON too soon, a fault
logic state is established that causes the overload alarm to sound continuously.
The CCD array is very sensitive to static electricity. Touching the CCD can destroy
it. Operations requiring contact with the device can only be performed at the
factory.
Never operate the camera cooled without proper evacuation or backfill. This could
damage the CCD! Do not open the purge valve.
Never connect or disconnect any cable while the PI-MAX4 system is powered on.
Reconnecting a charged cable may damage the CCD.
Never prevent the free flow of air through the equipment by blocking the air vents.
of damage from high-intensity light
significant risk
position. Cover the camera window
OFF
after the illumination level has been lowered.
ON
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