Oxford Instruments ANDOR ZL41 Cell User Manual
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Oxford Instruments ANDOR ZL41 Cell User Manual

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ZL41 Cell
1.0 rev Monday, December 12, 2022
User Guide
For model: 4.2, 5.5, Liquid & Air cooled, USB & CameraLink
© Andor Technology 2022

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Summary of Contents for Oxford Instruments ANDOR ZL41 Cell

  • Page 1 ZL41 Cell 1.0 rev Monday, December 12, 2022 User Guide For model: 4.2, 5.5, Liquid & Air cooled, USB & CameraLink © Andor Technology 2022...

  • Page 2: Section 1 - Safety And Warning Information

    Section 1 - Safety and Warning Information Caution PLEASE READ THIS INFORMATION FIRST BEFORE USING YOUR PRODUCT  1. If the equipment is used in a manner not specified by Andor, the protection provided by the equipment may be impaired.  2. Do not position this product so that it is difficult to operate the mains disconnecting device.
  • Page 3  10. No parts should be replaced by the customer, except for the mains cables or the fuse, which must be of the same type and rating as that supplied and as specified in "Power Supply Information" on page 146 "Fuse Replacement" page 132, and certified in accordance with your region’s safety regulations.
  • Page 4  19. Electromagnetic Compatibility: As required by IEC/EN 61326-1, we must inform you that electromagnetic emissions in excess of that required by that EMC standard for the emissions class of this product can in theory occur due to its connection to other equipment.  20.
  • Page 5  28. Do not expose the product to open flames.  29. Do not allow objects to fall on the product. Version 1.0 Monday, December 12, 2022...

  • Page 6: Label Symbols

    1.1    Label Symbols EU CE Mark by which we indicate that this product meets the requirements all the relevant EU Product Directives that require this mark, including the Low Voltage Directive for safety (as this product is manufactured in North- ern Ireland, it does not require the UKCA Mark) EU WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) Mark which indicates that this should not be disposed of in domestic waste but at a suitable...

  • Page 7: Unpacking Information

    1.2    Unpacking Information Carefully unpack the unit and retain the packaging materials to transport or return equipment if required:   If the equipment appears damaged in any way, return it to sales outlet in its original packaging.   No responsibility for damage arising from the use of non-approved packaging will be accepted.

  • Page 8: Revision History

    1.3    Revision History Version Released Description Monday, December 12, 2022 Initial release. Version 1.0 Monday, December 12, 2022...
  • Page 9 1.4    Updates to the Manual Changes are periodically made to the product, and these will be incorporated into new editions of the manual. Please check for new releases of the manual at: andor.oxinst.com/downloads. If you find an issue in this manual, please contact your customer support representative with a description of the issue.

  • Page 10: Section 2 - Introduction

    Section 2 - Introduction Thank you for choosing the ZL41 Cell Scientific CMOS (sCMOS) camera. You are now in possession of a revolutionary new sCMOS camera, a breakthrough technology based on the next-generation CMOS image sensor (CIS) design and fabrication techniques. The camera offers two image sensors of 5.5 Megapixels (ZL41 Cell 5.5) and 4.2 Megapixels (ZL41 Cell 4.2).

  • Page 11: Technical Support

    2.1    Technical Support If you have any questions regarding the use of this equipment, please contact the representative from whom your system was purchased, or:     Europe Andor Technology Andor Technology 7 Millennium Way 300 Baker Avenue Springvale Business Park Suite # 150 Belfast Concord...

  • Page 12: Copyright And Protective Notices

    2.2    Copyright and Protective Notices The copyright in this document and the associated drawings are the property of Andor Technology Ltd. and all rights are reserved. This document and the associated drawings are issued on condition that they are not copied, reprinted or reproduced, nor their contents disclosed.
  • Page 13 2.3    Disclaimer THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS PROVIDED “AS IS” WITHOUT WARRANTY, CONDITION OR REPRESENTATION OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS, IMPLIED, STATUTORY OR OTHERWISE, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO, ANY WARRANTY OF MERCHANTABILITY, NON-INFRINGEMENT OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. IN NO EVENT SHALL ANDOR BE LIABLE FOR ANY LOSS OR DAMAGE, WHETHER DIRECT, INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL, CONSEQUENTIAL OR OTHERWISE HOWSOEVER CAUSED WHETHER ARISING IN CONTRACT TORT OR OTHERWISE,...

  • Page 14: Trademarks And Patent Information

    2.4    Trademarks and Patent Information Andor, ZL41 Cell and the Andor logo are trademarks of Andor Technology Ltd. Andor Technology Ltd. is an Oxford Instruments company. All other marks are property of their owners. Manufacturers Information Andor Technology Ltd., Belfast, BT12 7AL, UK.

  • Page 15: Supplied Components

    2.5    Supplied Components The standard components supplied with the ZL41 Cell are shown below: Table 1:Supplied components. Description Quantity ZL41 Cell 5.5 or ZL41 Cell 4.2 sCMOS Camera with Integral Lens Mount Adaptor (C, CS or F-mount: as selected at time of ordering)  ...
  • Page 16   Description Quantity PCIe frame grabber card Coolant hose inserts (for water cooled models only) Anti-static strap Quick start guide Hex key set (1.5 mm) Version 1.0 Monday, December 12, 2022...
  • Page 17 2.6    Camera Model Options There are a number of models of ZL41 Cell camera based off of a common architecture and shared design. The differences for each model can be identified from the product codes and descriptions outlined below: Table 2:Model options. Description Code ZL41 Cell 4.2 PLUS, 4.2 Megapixel, Rolling shutter, 100 fps, Camera Link 10-tap...

  • Page 18: Optional Components

    2.7    Optional Components There are a range of optional and additional accessories available for ZL41 Cell including: Table 3:Optional components. Description Order Code SRRF-Stream- SRRF-Stream+ real time super resolution for ZL41 Cell 4.2 Zyla-4P CS-mount adapter ACC-MEC-05609 F-mount adapter ACM-05574 Auto extension tubes (set of 3) for C-mount OA-ECMT Auto extension tubes (set of 3) for Nikon F...

  • Page 19: Section 3 - Product Overview

    Section 3 - Product Overview This section provides an overview of the main features of the ZL41 Cell. ZL41 Cell 4.2 PLUS and 5.5 are available as water cooled or air cooled models. ZL41 Cell 4.2 PLUS comes equipped with a 4.2 Megapixel sensor and rolling shutter as standard.

  • Page 20: Rear Panel

    3.1    Rear Panel The rear panel of both USB 3.0 and Cameralink models is shown below. Figure 3:ZL41 Cell Back Plate Connections (Left) Cameralink versions (Right) USB 3.0 version  1. I/O 15-Way D Type Connector  2. 12V DC Power Connector, see "Power Supply Information"...
  • Page 21 3.1.1    Multi I/O Timing Cable Pin Outs Table 4:Multi I/O Timing Cable Pinouts 15-way D type connector Reserved AUX_OUT_1 Reserved FIRE n Reserved FIRE Reserved AUX_OUT_2 Reserved Ground Reserved External Trigger Reserved Spare (I)       External Trigger and Spare input are 5 V TTL input. By default they trigger on a rising edge.
  • Page 22 Note This configurable output is only available on cameras with FPGA version numbers ≥ 20120802 and Solis versions ≥ 4.22.30001.0 (SDK users require version ≥ 3.5.30001.0).   AUX_OUT_2 output is reserved for future use.   I/O Timing Interface cable (Andor part number ACC-ACZ-05612) gives access to all of the above I/O functions (excluding Ground and Reserved).
  • Page 23 3.1.2    Impedance Information Figure 4:ZL41 Cell connection impedance information Version 1.0 Monday, December 12, 2022...
  • Page 24 3.2    Cooling Hose Connectors There are two connectors to allow connection of Liquid Cooled ZL41 Cell models to a water cooler or re-circulator. Hose inserts are provided to enable connection to coolant hoses. On ZL41 the cooling hose connectors are located on the side of the camera, similar to Zyla.
  • Page 25 3.3    Camera based Super Resolution (SRRF-Stream+) Certain Andor cameras including ZL41 Cell have been developed to enable super-resolution imaging to be achieved using a normal microscope. This technology is called SRRF-Stream+. It is a cell friendly and easy to use approach to achieving sub-diffraction limited resolutions.

  • Page 26: Section 4 - Installation

    Section 4 - Installation Caution Prior to commencing installation, the user should refer to the safety and warning information and unpacking instructions at the beginning of this manual. Due care must be taken when lifting the camera. Ensure that the mounting and connected assembly is secure and able to support the weight of the camera.

  • Page 27: Transport And Storage

    4.1    Transport and Storage   The camera is packed in normal transport packaging for shipping.   Allow the product to reach the ambient temperature after unpacking- especially if moving from a colder environment to a warm environment as this may lead to condensation. Storage  ...
  • Page 28 4.1.1    Using Lens Mount Adaptors The ZL41 Cell has a T-mount thread as standard. There are 3 standard lens mount adaptors available that can be specified at the time of ordering, enabling the Zyla to suit standard mounting options. These are as follows:  ...
  • Page 29 4.1.2    C-mount or CS-Mount Adaptor The C-mount adaptor can be adjusted as follows:  1. Loosen the 2 locking screws located in the front face of the adaptor if required using supplied 1.5 mm Allen key. Figure 6:C-mount adaptor Figure 7:CS-mount adaptor  2.
  • Page 30 4.1.3    F-mount Adaptor The F-mount should be screwed into the camera faceplate by hand. Figure 8:F-mount adaptor  1. Manually screw the F-mount adaptor until the desired focal position is achieved.  2. Manually tighten the collar down to the camera faceplate to lock the mount in position.
  • Page 31 4.1.4    Mounting the Camera using the Mounting Flange The camera mounting face features 4 off M4x0.7 tapped holes x7.0[0.275] deep. These can be used to secure the camera to an appropriate mounting as an alternative to using the lens mounts. Caution The weight of the camera is approx.1 kg ensure that the mounting and the system it is con- nected to provides adequate support.
  • Page 32 4.2    Cooling Integral Thermal Protection Care should be taken to ensure that the camera does not overheat, as this can cause system failure. Overheating may occur if either of the following situations arises: Air-cooled Models   The air vents on the sides of the head are accidentally blocked  ...
  • Page 33   Heat load created by the ZL41 Cell sensor (dependant on pixel readout speed)   Number of cooling stages of the TE cooler   Operating current   Hot side temperature of thermoelectric cooler Even with a fan, a heat sink typically needs to be at least 10ºC hotter than the air (room) temperature to transfer heat efficiently to the surrounding air.
  • Page 34 4.3    Connecting a Cooling System The standard camera uses air cooling to cool the sensor to 0°C. A model with liquid cooling can be used for deeper cooling to -10°C. Important Considerations when using Liquid Cooling Systems Caution Before attempting to insert or remove the coolant hose connections, ensure that all coolant has been drained from the hoses and integral coolant channel within the camera head.
  • Page 35 6 mm [0.25”] internal diameter soft PVC tubing / hose.   Recommended tubing: 10 mm [0.4”] outside diameter, i.e. a wall thickness of 2 mm [0.08”]. Alternative hose dimensions and materials should be thoroughly tested to ensure a leak tight seal is achieved with the barbed inserts.

  • Page 36: Coolant Recommendations

    4.4    Coolant Recommendations • Coolant temperature: Refer to the temperatures specified in Technical Specifications. Note that cooling performance may be affected by distance between camera head and cooler. • Recommended coolant: water or water/glycol mix depending on the ambient environmental temperature during operation. De-ionized water (without additives) may be used as the coolant.
  • Page 37 4.4.1    Connecting the Coolant Hoses  1. Press the hose connector into the connection on the camera head, ensure it clicks into place and repeat for the second hose.  2. Confirm the hoses are connected securely by applying pressure on the top front of the camera body and pulling backwards on the hoses.
  • Page 38 4.4.2    Disconnecting the Coolant Hoses  1. Press the latch on the camera hose connection away from the hose.  2. Hold the latch in and pull the hose backwards.  3. The hose should release from the camera connection with little resistance. Note If the hose does not release, ensure that the latch on the camera connection is pressed in fully.

  • Page 39: Connecting The Camera To The Pc

    4.5    Connecting the Camera to the PC The camera connects to a PC via USB or CameraLink that provides a standard, robust and high-speed connection with the control PC. It is recommended to use the supplied PCle card as this will ensure consistent performance. Other ports on the PC may share bandwidth with other devices and peripheral components.
  • Page 40 4.5.1    Installing the Camera Framegrabber Card Note Camera operation with PCIe cards not supplied by Andor cannot be guaranteed. Figure 9:Installing the FrameGrabber PCIe card (Left) Camera Link versions and (Right) for USB 3.0.  1. Unplug all cables from the rear of the computer  2.
  • Page 41  7. Replace the computer cover and secure with mounting screws if applicable.  8. Reconnect any accessories you were using previously. Version 1.0 Monday, December 12, 2022...
  • Page 42 4.5.2    Connecting the Camera to the PCIe Card 4.5.2.1    Connecting via USB Connect the USB cable from the camera to the appropriate PCIe card on the control PC. 4.5.2.2    Connecting via CameraLink Connect the CameraLink cable from the camera to the appropriate PCIe card on the control PC.

  • Page 43: Installing Software And Drivers

    4.6    Installing Software and Drivers Version 1.0 Monday, December 12, 2022...

  • Page 44: Minimum Computer Requirements

    4.6.1    Minimum Computer Requirements   2.68 GHz Quad Core + 4 GB RAM   Hard Drive:   Minimum 850 MB/s continuous write for ZL41 Cell CL 10-tap models   Minimum 450 MB/s continuous write for ZL41 Cell USB 3.0 models  ...
  • Page 45 4.6.2    Installing Software or Drivers The same instructions cover the installation procedure for Andor’s Solis software or Andor’s SDK, which is used in conjunction with third party software. If you are planning to run your camera through a third party interface you will require the Andor Drivers, called Software Development Kit (SDK).

  • Page 46: New Hardware Wizard

    4.6.3    New Hardware Wizard When the ZL41 Cell camera is connected to a PC for the first time, the New Hardware Wizard screen will appear.  1. Select the ‘No, not this time only’ option then click Next>.  2. Select the ‘Install from a list or specified location (Advanced) option then click Next>.
  • Page 47 4.6.4    Checking & Setting BIOS options (for PCs not supplied by Andor) Enter the BIOS menu when starting PC. For Dell workstations, press F12 at start-up and select System Setup in the One Time Boot Menu. For Dell workstations 3 options in the Performance menu of the BIOS need to be checked/set:  ...

  • Page 48: Section 5 - Operation

    Section 5 - Operation Caution IF THE EQUIPMENT IS USED IN A MANNER NOT SPECIFIED BY ANDOR OR ITS DISTRIBUTORS, THE PROTECTION PROVIDED BY THE EQUIPMENT MAY BE IMPAIRED. PLEASE READ THE USER GUIDES SUPPLIED WITH YOUR SYSTEM COMPONENTS AND CAMERA CONTROL SOFTWARE PRIOR TO USE.

  • Page 49: Emergency Mains Disconnection

    5.1    Emergency Mains Disconnection In case of emergency, the disconnecting point of the equipment is the mains power cord connected to the external power supply, or the mains socket switch. WARNING SWITCH OFF THE POWER AT THE MAINS SOCKET AND REMOVE THE MAINS LEAD FROM THE EXTERNAL POWER SUPPLY Version 1.0 Monday, December 12, 2022...

  • Page 50: Power-Up Sequence

    5.2    Power Up Sequence  1. Ensure that the camera is powered on at the mains power supply. (There is an ON/OFF switch on the backplate of the camera).  2. Ensure that the USB or Camera Link cable is connected between the camera and the PC.

  • Page 51: Power Down Sequence

    5.3    Power Down Sequence  1. Exit the camera control software.  2. Switch the camera off using the switch on the rear panel .  3. If not using the camera for some time, disconnect from the mains power socket. Version 1.0 Monday, December 12, 2022...

  • Page 52: Using The Camera

    5.4    Using the Camera Once set-up the camera is controlled through the camera control software. Please refer to the information supplied with the camera control software (available separately) for further details e.g. Andor Solis or SDK3. Some important features and concepts are outlined in the following sections. Version 1.0 Monday, December 12, 2022...
  • Page 53 5.5    sCMOS Structure and Operation sCMOS technology has been developed specifically to overcome many of the limitations that have marred other scientific detector technologies, resulting in an imaging detector that provides exceptional performance for many applications. As illustrated above, the CMOS sensor is an “Active Pixel Sensor” (APS) whereby each pixel has its own integral amplifier and the sequence of operation is as follows:  1.
  • Page 54 Notes The diagram, above is representative - the light sensitive area is contiguous as the photodiodes for each pixel are buried within the sensor. Each pixel also has a microlens to maximize sensitivity to light. For Rolling Shutter mode operation, pixels in each row are exposed and the charge converted to a voltage simultaneously before being digitized then read out sequentially.
  • Page 55 5.6    Dual Amplifier Dynamic Range The Dual Amplifier architecture of the sCMOS sensor in ZL41 Cell eliminates the need to choose between low noise or high capacity, in that signal can be sampled simultaneously by both high gain and low gain amplifiers. As such, the lowest noise of the sensor can be harnessed alongside the maximum well depth, affording the widest possible dynamic range.
  • Page 56 Figure 10:Amplifiers and ADC of the sCMOS Sensor The dual column level amplifier/ADC pairs have independent gain settings, and the final image ("High contrast image of fixed labeled cell. Intensity line profile through single row demonstrates pixel regions that were sampled by high gain (low noise) and low gain (high capacity) amplifiers."...
  • Page 57 stream. The gain corrects for pixel to pixel relative sensitivity, pixel node amplifier and the high and low amplifier relative gains  4. The pixels are then combined into a single 16-bit image for transfer to the PC The user maintains the choice of opting to stay with 12-bit single gain channel data if dynamic range is not critical, resulting in smaller file sizes.
  • Page 58 Figure 11:High contrast image of fixed labeled cell. Intensity line profile through single row demonstrates pixel regions that were sampled by high gain (low noise) and low gain (high capacity) amplifiers. Version 1.0 Monday, December 12, 2022...
  • Page 59 5.6.1    Using ROIs (AOIs) Region of Interest (ROI) also called Area of Interest (AOI) can be selected so that only a defined region of the sensor is used. When a sub image has been defined, only data from the selected rows will be digitized. Selecting a sub image increases the frame readout rate and reduces image storage requirements.
  • Page 60 5.7    Understanding Read Noise in sCMOS sCMOS technology boasts an ultra-low read noise floor that significantly exceeds that of even the best CCDs, and at several orders of magnitude faster pixel readout speeds. For those more accustomed to dealing with CCDs, it is useful to gain an understanding of the nature of read noise distribution in CMOS imaging sensors.
  • Page 61 Figure 12:Representative histogram showing read noise distribution at fastest readout speed of ZL41 Cell 5.5, 560 MHz (280 MHz x2). The median value of 1.38 e- means 50% pixels have read noise less than 1.38 e- and 50% have greater than 1.38 e-. The line at 6 e- represents a typical read noise value from a well optimized Interline CCD –...
  • Page 62 5.7.1    Binning Binning is a process used for both CCD and sCMOS sensors in which the signal for a number of pixels is combined into a single array with a single signal output. For CCD sensors combining the charge from arrays of pixels e.g. 4 pixels (2x2 binning) into single larger “super-pixels”...
  • Page 63 5.7.2    Spurious Noise Filter The Spurious Noise filter corrects for pixels that would otherwise appear as spurious ‘salt and pepper’ noise spikes in the image. The appearance of such noisy pixels is analogous to the situation of Clock Induced Charge (CIC) noise spikes in EMCCD cameras, in that the overall noise of the sensor has been reduced to such a low level, that the remaining small percentage of spurious, high noise pixels can become an aesthetic issue.
  • Page 64 5.7.3    Blemish Correction Filter This Blemish Correction filter identifies and compensates for three types of blemishes during the FPGA processing step:  1. Hot pixels  2. Noisy pixels  3. Unresponsive pixels sCMOS sensors are particularly susceptible to hot pixel blemishes. These are spurious noise pixels that have significantly higher darkcurrent than the average.
  • Page 65 5.8    Sensor Readout Optimisation To allow the camera to be optimized for the widest range of applications it is important to have flexibility in the readout options available, some of these include the following:   Gain Channel Control   Pixel Readout Rate  ...
  • Page 66 ZL41 Cell 5.5 ZL41 Cell 4.2 ZL41 Cell 5.5 ZL41 Cell 4.2 10-tap 10-tap USB 3.0 USB 3.0 Region of Shutter Bit- Interest Mode depth 12-bit 1639 1578 1639 1578 Rolling 16-bit 1639 1578 1639 1578 128 x 128 12-bit Global 16-bit  ...
  • Page 67 5.8.1    Gain Channel Control The ZL41 Cell offers the user a choice of two 12-bit gain channels (i.e. high or low gain) or a combined ‘16-bit’ setting. The user can choose to stay with 12-bit single gain channel data if dynamic range is not critical, resulting in smaller file sizes. This in turn offers faster frame rates when continuously spooling through the Camera Link interface and writing to hard disk.
  • Page 68 5.9    Pixel Readout Rate The Pixel Readout Rate defines the rate at which pixels are read from the sensor. The faster the readout rate the higher the frame rate that can be achieved. The ability to change the pixel readout rate is important to achieve the maximum flexibility of camera operation.
  • Page 69 5.10    Rolling and Global Shutter The sCMOS sensor used by the ZL41 Cell 5.5 offers a choice of both Rolling and Global shutter, providing superior application flexibility. Rolling and Global shutter modes describe two distinct sequences through which the image may be read off a sCMOS sensor.
  • Page 70 5.10.1    Rolling Shutter In Rolling Shutter mode, adjacent rows of the array are exposed at slightly different times as the readout ‘waves’ sweep through each half of the sensor. Therefore, each row will start and end its exposure slightly offset in time from its neighbour. In the case of the ZL41 Cell 5.5, at the maximum readout rate of 560 MHz (as each half of the sensor is at 280 MHz), this offset between adjacent row exposures is ~10 μs.
  • Page 71 A potential downside of rolling shutter is spatial distortion resulting from the above described exposure mechanism. This has historically been more apparent in devices such as CMOS camcorders, where the entire image field could be moved (for example by the user rapidly panning the camera) at a rate that the image readout could not match;...
  • Page 72 5.10.2    Global Shutter Global shutter mode, which can also be thought of as a ‘snapshot’ exposure mode, means that all pixels of the array are exposed simultaneously. In most respects, global shutter can be thought of as behaving like an Interline CCD sensor.
  • Page 73 5.10.3    Selecting Rolling or Global Shutter The selection of Rolling Shutter or Global Shutter modes for the ZL41 Cell 5.5 depends on your specific experimental conditions. A summary of the key parameters for each mode is shown in the table below. Table 9:A comparison of rolling and global shutter modes Global Shutter Mode (ZL41 Cell 5.5 Parameter...
  • Page 74 5.10.4    Examples of Typical Applications for Global Shutter Mode   Applications that require ‘microsecond’ time gating synced to a pulsed light source: e.g. Laser Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS). Global readout involves a step that simultaneously transfers the signal charge of each pixel into the corresponding readout node for that pixel.
  • Page 75 5.10.5    Rolling and Global Shutter Mechanisms In Rolling Shutter mode, charge transfer happens on a per row basis whilst in global shutter charge transfer happens for the whole sensor or globally. To read out a pixel in Rolling Shutter mode, the following occurs within the analog circuitry:  1.

  • Page 76: Trigger Modes

    5.11    Trigger Modes The ZL41 Cell camera has the following triggering modes:   Internal Trigger - the camera determines the exact time when an exposure happens based on the acquisition settings entered by the user. This is the most basic trigger mode and requires no external intervention.  ...
  • Page 77 Note ‘Row 1’ is the first row read out in the image frame. ‘Row n’ is the last row read out in the image frame. The trigger diagrams in the following sections are for outlining the events and timing of outputs in the various trigger modes and not to scale.
  • Page 78 5.11.1    Software Acquisition Events Software Acquisition Events are only accessible via SDK- these are not available in Solis, iQ or other software but may be used internally. Refer to the SDK3 manual for further information on configuration of Software Acquisition Events. Compare the two diagrams below: The first diagram "Rolling Shutter - Original Acquisition using SW Trigger.
  • Page 79 Figure 17:Rolling Shutter - New Acquisition using Events and Faster SW Trigger. Example: RS, 560 MHz 30 ms exposure, full image. Version 1.0 Monday, December 12, 2022...

  • Page 80: Signal Information

    5.11.2    Signal Information   Acquisition Start: This is an internal pulse purely for illustrative purposes and indicates when the camera receives a command from software to start the pre-programmed acquisition sequence   FIRE: (Exposure for Row 1): In Rolling Shutter mode, the FIRE output from the camera indicates to the user the exposure time for the first row  ...
  • Page 81   Frame Readout Phase: This signal shows the period during which the signal frame is read out from the sensor   EXT Start Delay: This is the delay between the start of the External Trigger pulse and the start of exposure of row 1.  ...
  • Page 82 5.11.3    Timing Parameters and Ext Triggering The timing tables accompanying each of the triggering diagrams that follow indicate the exposure and cycle times achievable in each triggering mode for the ZL41 Cell. These are based on Frame and Row Periods as shown below. 5.11.3.1    Timing Parameters and Ext Triggering for ZL41 Cell 5.5 Table 10:Timing Parameters based on Sensor Clock Speed (ZL41 Cell 5.5) Sensor Readout Rate...
  • Page 83 The time taken to read out a full row is equal to 2592 clock cycles. The sensor is split into 2 halves with each having an independent data output from the sensor. This means the Frame Period is 1024 rows x 2592 clock cycles. For sub-images the frame readout time is related to the number of rows being displayed.
  • Page 84 5.11.4    Rolling Shutter Internal Triggering (Non-Overlap Mode) Internal Trigger Mode allows the user to configure an exposure time and cycle time. For Internal Triggering Non-overlap mode, the exact acquisition sequence depends on the exposure time and cycle time set as shown in "Rolling Shutter Internal Triggering"...
  • Page 85 Parameter Minimum Maximum Exposure 1 Row 30 s Cycle Time (1/Frame Rate) Exposure + 1 Frame + 1 Row 20,000 s Acquisition Start Delay 1 Row Version 1.0 Monday, December 12, 2022...
  • Page 86 5.11.5    Rolling Shutter Internal Triggering (Overlap Mode) Internal Triggering in Overlap Mode allows the user to perform an exposure and acquire images from the sensor simultaneously. This is achieved by starting a new exposure for a new frame while the current frame’s exposure is being read out from the sensor.
  • Page 87 Parameter Minimum Maximum Acquisition Start Delay 1 Row Long Exposures When the required exposure time is greater than the time it takes to read out a frame (Long Exposures), the cycle time is defined by the exposure time. Initially, the entire sensor is held in a global clear state to ensure that there is no charge build-up on the sensor.
  • Page 88 5.11.6    Rolling Shutter External Triggering (Non Overlap Mode) In this section, both External and Software Trigger are described in the same diagram as the acquisition sequence is the same. The trigger event can either be from the EXT Trigger input or sent via software. While waiting on the trigger event, the sensor is put into a “pre-scan read out cycle”...
  • Page 89   Table 17:Rolling Shutter External/Software Triggering Timing Parameters Parameter Minimum Maximum Exposure 3 Rows 30 s Cycle Time (1/Frame Rate) Exposure + 1 Frame + 1 Row External Start Delay 1 Row EXT Trig Pulse Width 2 Sensor Speed Clock Cycles  ...
  • Page 90 5.11.7    Rolling Shutter External Exposure Triggering (Non-Overlap Mode) While waiting on the trigger event, the sensor held in a global clear state and is put into a “pre-scan read out cycle”. On detection of the trigger event, Global Clear goes LOW and a frame read out is initiated. This frame is discarded as it does not contain the correct exposure period.
  • Page 91 Table 18:Rolling Shutter External Exposure Triggering (Non Overlap Mode) Timing Parameters Parameter Minimum Maximum Exposure 3 Rows 30 s Cycle Time (EXT Trig Period) Exposure + 1 Frame + 1 Row External Start Delay 1 Row EXT Trig Pulse Width 3 Rows 30 s Version 1.0 Monday, December 12, 2022...
  • Page 92 5.11.8    Rolling Shutter External Exposure Triggering (Overlap Mode) In overlap mode, every positive edge of an external trigger will trigger a frame read out and start a new exposure for the next frame. The period of external trigger pulse defines exposure and cycle time for each frame read out. While waiting on the positive edge of the external trigger, the sensor is held in a global clear state and put into a “pre-scan read out cycle”.
  • Page 93 Parameter Minimum Maximum External Start Delay 1 Row EXT Trig Pulse Width 2 Sensor Speed Clock Cycles FIRE low period 20 Sensor Speed Clock Cycles Version 1.0 Monday, December 12, 2022...
  • Page 94 5.11.9    Rolling Shutter External Start Triggering In this mode the camera will wait for a single external trigger event. Once this external trigger event is detected, the camera will progress as if the camera was in internal trigger mode (see "Rolling Shutter Internal Triggering (Overlap Mode)"...
  • Page 95 5.11.10    Rolling Shutter Global Clear Internal (Non-Overlap Mode) Rolling Shutter Global Clear is an extended Rolling Shutter Mode available on Zyla 4.2 only. If enabled, the sensor rows are held in a global clear state to ensure there is no charge build-up on the sensor. When the camera is taken out of the Global Clear state, the exposure period begins for all rows in the sensor.
  • Page 96 Parameter Minimum Maximum Acquisition Start Delay 2 Rows *The exposure time reported is the exposure time for ROW 1 and the period for which FIRE ALL is HIGH. Version 1.0 Monday, December 12, 2022...
  • Page 97 5.11.11    Rolling Shutter Global Clear External Triggering (Non-Over- lap Mode) Available for ZL41 Cell 4.2 only. In this section, both External and Software Trigger are described in the same diagram as the acquisition sequence is the same. The trigger event can either be from the EXT Trigger input or sent via software. While waiting on the trigger event, the sensor is held in a Global Clear State which ensures that charge build up on the sensor is kept to a minimum while waiting for the trigger event.
  • Page 98 Parameter Minimum Maximum Exposure* 1 Frame + 1 Row 30 s Cycle Time (1/Frame Rate) Exposure + 1 Frame + 5 Rows External Start Delay 1 Row EXT Trig Pulse Width 2 Sensor Speed Clock Cycles *The exposure time reported is the exposure time for ROW 1 and the period for which FIRE ALL is HIGH.
  • Page 99 5.11.12    Rolling Shutter Global Clear External Exposure Triggering (Non-Overlap Mode) Available for ZL41 Cell 4.2 only. While waiting on the trigger event, the sensor is held in a Global Clear State which ensures that charge build up on the sensor is kept to a minimum while waiting for the trigger event.
  • Page 100   Table 22:Rolling Shutter External Exposure Triggering (Non Overlap Mode) Timing Parameters Parameter Minimum Maximum Exposure* 1 Frame + 1 Row 30 s Cycle Time (1/Frame Rate) Exposure + 1 Frame + 5 Rows External Start Delay 1 Row EXT Trig Pulse Width 1 Frame + 1 Row 30 s *The exposure time reported is the exposure time for ROW 1 and the period for which FIRE ALL is...
  • Page 101 5.11.13     Rolling Shutter Triggering Constraints The table below shows a summary of constraints when operating in Rolling Shutter mode: Table 23:Rolling Shutter Mode Triggering Constraints Fast expos- Min trig- Exposure Max trig- ure switch- Rolling Shutter Triggering Modes ger pulse Range ger jitter width...
  • Page 102 Fast expos- Min trig- Exposure Max trig- ure switch- Rolling Shutter Triggering Modes ger pulse Range ger jitter width supported Exposure Time controlled by Global Clear width of external trigger pulse. (1 Frame 1 Frame + External Exposure Cycle Time controlled via + 1 Row) 1 Row 1 Row...
  • Page 103 5.11.14    Global Shutter Triggering Modes Global Shutter triggering modes are available for ZL41 Cell 5.5 only. Global Shutter can also be thought of as a ‘snapshot’ exposure mode, meaning that all pixels of the array are exposed simultaneously. Before the exposure begins, all pixels in the array are cleared of charge using the Global Clear.
  • Page 104 there is a specified time between reading out the reference and signal frames.   Frame Read Out Phase: This signal indicates when reference and signal frames are read out of the sensor.   InterFrame: The interframe defines the minimum time taken between reference and signal frame readouts.
  • Page 105 5.11.15    Global Shutter Internal Triggering (Non-Overlap Mode) In internal non-overlap modes, a new exposure can not start until the previous exposure has been read out. The exact acquisition sequence depends on the exposure time. The two scenarios are shown in "Global Shutter Internal Triggering –...
  • Page 106 If the exposure time is greater than a frame read out time, the exposure starts first by pulsing the Global Clear. The reference frame is read out during the exposure such that the end of the reference read out is coincident with the end of the exposure.
  • Page 107 5.11.16    Global Shutter Internal Triggering (Overlap Mode) In Internal Triggering in Overlap Mode, the read out of an exposure overlaps with the next exposure. This allows the user to maximise the Cycle Time for a given exposure time. The absolute maximum frame rate achievable is the time taken to read out both the Reference and Signal Frame from the sensor.
  • Page 108   Note The table shows that the cycle time depends on the exposure selected – within the exposure range detailed in the first row the cycle time is constant, however for exposures of (2 Frames + 1 Interframe + 1 Row) or longer the cycle time increases with exposure. Version 1.0 Monday, December 12, 2022...
  • Page 109 5.11.17    Global Shutter External or Software Triggering In this section, both External and Software Trigger are described in the same diagram as the acquisition sequence is the same. The trigger event can either from the EXT input or sent via software. While waiting on the trigger event, the sensor is put into a “pre-scan read out cycle”.
  • Page 110 it is too fast- refer to "Global Shutter External/Software Triggering Timing Parameters (Overlap On) - Cycle Time Dependent on Exposure" below for guidelines on time restrictions. Figure 32:Global Shutter External/Software Triggering (Overlap Mode) Table 29:Global Shutter External/Software Triggering Timing Parameters (Overlap On) - Cycle Time Dependent on Exposure Parameter Minimum...
  • Page 111 5.11.18    Global Shutter External Exposure Triggering (Non-Overlap Mode) While waiting on the trigger event, the sensor is put into a “pre-scan read out cycle”. On detection of the trigger event, the Global Clear is pulsed to clear the charge from the sensor. The exposure period then starts and lasts for the width of the External Trigger.
  • Page 112 Note The table shows that the cycle time depends on the exposure selected – within the exposure range detailed in the first row the cycle time is constant, however for exposures of (2 Frames + 1 Interframe + 5 Rows) or longer the cycle time increases with exposure. Version 1.0 Monday, December 12, 2022...
  • Page 113 5.11.19    Global Shutter External Exposure Triggering (Overlap Mode) In overlap mode, every positive edge of an External trigger will trigger a signal frame read out and start a new exposure. The period of External trigger pulse defines both the exposure time and cycle time. Note that when an acquisition starts, the first positive edge of the trigger will initiate the first exposure but also output a frame that has an incorrect exposure which is therefore discarded.
  • Page 114 Parameter Minimum Maximum 2 Sensor Speed Clock EXT Trig Pulse Width Cycles   Note In global shutter external exposure mode, taking exposures in darkness of 270 ms or more will lead to increased noise. A reference frame is taken at the start of the exposure and the cam- era then idles until the end is signalled, which triggers the image readout.
  • Page 115 5.11.20    Global Shutter External Start Triggering In this mode the camera will wait for a single external trigger event. Once this external trigger event is detected, the camera will progress as if the camera was in internal trigger mode. The ARM signal indicates to the user when the camera is ready to detect an External Start Trigger.
  • Page 116 5.11.21    Global Shutter Triggering Constraints The table below shows a summary of constraints when operating the ZL41 Cell 5.5 model in Global Shutter mode: Table 34:Global Shutter Mode Triggering Constraints Fast expos- Min trig- Exposure Max trig- ure switch- Global Shutter Triggering Modes ger pulse Range ger jitter...
  • Page 117 Fast expos- Min trig- Exposure Max trig- ure switch- Global Shutter Triggering Modes ger pulse Range ger jitter width supported Frame + 4 Rows) to 30 s (1 Frame + 1 External Start (Over- User settable exposure 2 Sensor InterFrame + 1 1 Row lap On) time...

  • Page 118: Acquisition Modes

    5.12    Acquisition Modes The following acquisition modes can be supported:   Single Scan   Kinetic Series   Accumulate   Run Till Abort Notes The term ‘User Frame’, in this section refers to a single frame in Rolling Shutter mode and a reference/image frame pair in Global Shutter mode.
  • Page 119 5.12.1    Single Scan Single Scan refers to an acquisition in which only one user frame is transmitted from the camera. A user frame is output from the sensor on receipt of a valid trigger of the selected type and then transmitted from the camera. Note that any subsequent triggers within the same acquisition are ignored.
  • Page 120 5.12.2    Kinetic Series Kinetic Series refers to an acquisition in which a finite number of user frames are transmitted from the camera. The number of frames in a Kinetic Series is defined by the user. One user frame is output from the sensor on receipt of each valid trigger of the selected type.
  • Page 121 5.12.3    Accumulate Accumulate refers to an acquisition in which a number of frames in a series are accumulated together into a single image. This accumulation of user frames is performed off-camera. Either all the user frames in a series are accumulated to give a single accumulated image or a smaller number of user frames in the series are accumulated to give a series of accumulated images.
  • Page 122 5.12.4    Run Till Abort Acquisition Run Till Abort refers to an acquisition in which an infinite number of user frames can be transmitted from the camera and the acquisition will continue to run until it is aborted. One user frame will be output from the sensor on receipt of each valid trigger of the selected type.
  • Page 123 5.12.5    Live Mode Live Mode refers to a version of Run Till Abort in which each user frame will be the latest frame output by the sensor and will have the minimum amount of latency through the camera as possible. Live mode requires the use of SW Trigger.
  • Page 124 5.12.6    Fast Exposure Switch During an acquisition the user can change the exposure time, within allowable limits. Once a new exposure value has been written, it will be applied to the next user frame after the current frame exposure has completed. The exposure time can be changed any number of times before the acquisition finishes.
  • Page 125 5.12.7    Frame Rate Control If Internal Trigger is being used, the camera will trigger the sensor at the fastest possible rate by default. The user can reduce this trigger rate by defining a Frame Rate that is less than the maximum possible rate. Frame Rate must be set before the acquisition starts.
  • Page 126 5.12.8    LightScan PLUS 5.12.8.1    Multiple Readout Directions The standard mode of operation in sCMOS cameras is to read out from the centre of the sensor out to the edge with two halves of the sensor exposing simultaneously. LightScan PLUS provides the user with a range of different rolling shutter readout options.
  • Page 127 Figure 37:Multiple ‘dual laser’ scanning options available. The standard rolling shutter scan mode (Centre outwards in both directionssimultaneously) is illustrated on the left along with the three additional scanning options. For each of the various scanning options outlined above, CycleMax - a feature of LightScan PLUS –...
  • Page 128 Users are advised not to input a value for line scan speed referring to a pre- selected scanning speed of the illumination light, but to adjust the scanning speed of the illumination for the synchronization instead. Version 1.0 Monday, December 12, 2022...

  • Page 129: Section 6 - Maintenance

    Section 6 - Maintenance Caution There are no user-servicable parts inside the camera. Damage caused by unauthorised maintenance or procedures will invalidate the warranty. Version 1.0 Monday, December 12, 2022...

  • Page 130: Regular Checks

    6.1    Regular Checks   The state of the product should be checked regularly, especially the integrity of the External Power Supply and the mains cable.   Ensure that the AC mains plug in connection to building power outlet remains readily accessible to facilitate disconnection from the power supply.  ...
  • Page 131 6.2    General Cleaning & Decontamination Inform- ation   The product body can be cleaned with a soft cloth and dampened by water or glass cleaner.   Never spray liquids directly on the product; apply cleaning solution to the cloth, then wipe the product body with the dampened cloth.  ...

  • Page 132: Fuse Replacement

    6.3    Fuse Replacement In the U.K., Ireland and some other countries, the supplied mains cable has a BS 1363/A (also known as ITA Type G) plug that includes an integrated fuse. Only replace with fuse of the same type and rating for continued protection. The characteristics of a replacement fuse are as follows:  ...

  • Page 133: Annual Electrical Safety Checks

    6.4    Annual Electrical Safety Checks   It is advisable to check the integrity of the insulation and protective earth of the product on an annual basis, e.g. U.K. PAT testing. However over time the repetition of dielectric strength tests can damage safety insulation.  ...
  • Page 134 6.5    Cleaning the Camera Window At some point, it may become necessary to clean debris that may have settled on the sCMOS imaging sensor window. Cleaning the camera window can provide effective results providing you carefully follow these step-by-step directions. Caution Only open the shutter (if present) using camera control software.
  • Page 135 • A clean source of compressed air such as an air can is recommended- do not use a compressor that may spray fine droplets of oil, or an unfiltered air supply that may spray dust particles onto the camera window.  3.
  • Page 136 6.6    Cooling Hoses and Connections The user should routinely check all coolant hoses and connections for signs of leakage, damage or wear. All seals must be intact before powering on camera system and any worn / damaged items must be replaced immediately. Version 1.0 Monday, December 12, 2022...

  • Page 137: Section 7 - Troubleshooting

    Section 7 - Troubleshooting Fault Cause Solution   Camera buzzer The camera buzzer should be If this does not occur, ensure that does not sound audible momentarily when the power is connected to the camera on start-up camera is switched on. and the On/Off switch is set to On  ...
  • Page 138 Fault Cause Solution   Check that the operating ambient temperature is within allowable limits (see "Technical Specifications" on page 140) when cooling the sensor to 0°C. Camera does not cool to the     Check that the camera vents are not required tem- blocked and have sufficient clearance perature...
  • Page 139 Appendix The following sections contain information on product specifications, including technical, environmental, mechanical and electrical specifications. In addition, detailed mechanical drawings are presented. Version 1.0 Monday, December 12, 2022...

  • Page 140: Appendix A: Technical Specifications

    Appendix A: Technical Specifications •1 Model Specific Specifications Model ZL41 Cell 5.5 ZL41 Cell 4.2 Sensor type Front Illuminated Scientific CMOS Active pixels (W x 2560 x 2160 (5.5 Megapixel) 2048 x 2048 (4.2 Megapixel) 16.6 x 14.0 mm 13.3 x 13.3 mm Sensor size 21.8 mm diagonal 18.8 mm diagonal...

  • Page 141: General Specifications

    Model ZL41 Cell 5.5 ZL41 Cell 4.2 @ min temp •4 Air cooled 0.019 Water cooled Readout Rolling Shutter and Global Clear Rolling Shutter and True Global Shutter (Snapshot) •7 modes Maximum dynamic 33,000:1 range Photon Response Non- Uniformity   (PRNU) <...
  • Page 142 Full light range Better than 99.8% Low light range (< 1000 electrons Better than 99.9% signal) MTF (Nyquist @ 555 nm) 45% Pixel binning Hardware binning: 2 x 2, 3 x 3, 4 x 4, 8 x 8 Anti-blooming factor x 10,000 I/O External Trigger, Fire, Fire n, Fire All, Fire Any, Arm Internal, External, External Start, External Exposure, Software Trigger Modes...
  • Page 143 be used in ‘non-overlap’ readout mode, i.e. sequential exposure and readout phases rather than simultaneous.  8. ZL41 Cell USB 3.0 models should work with any modern USB 3.0 enabled PC/laptop (provided hard drives or RAM is sufficient to support data rates) as every USB 3.0 port should have its own host controller.

  • Page 144: Environmental Specifications

    Environmental Specifications     Location to be used Indoor use only Altitude Up to 2000 m 0ºC to 30ºC ambient(ZL41 Cell 5.5) 0ºC to 27ºC ambient Operating temperature (ZL41 Cell 4.2 ) Storage temperature -10ºC to 50ºC Operating relative humidity <70% (non-condensing) Pollution degree 2.

  • Page 145: Mechanical Specifications

    Mechanical Specifications ZL41 Cell   Weight (ZL41 Cell unit only) 1 kg Weight (External Power Supply) 0.33 kg Dimensions See Mechanical Drawings Version 1.0 Monday, December 12, 2022...
  • Page 146 Power Supply Information Electrical Power Specifications   ZL41 Cell Mains Input for Supplied 100 – 240 VAC, 50 – 60 Hz External Power Supply Camera + External Power Supply: 30 W typical/ 56 W max Power Con- sumption Camera Only: 25 W typical/ 50 W max Voltage Rat- 12 V Current Rating 5 A...

  • Page 147: External Power Supply Specifications

    External Power Supply Specifications   ZL41 Cell Supplied EPS Andor PS-12 Low Voltage Supply 12 V +/- 5% Input Low Voltage Supply Cur- rent Low Voltage Supply Tyco Electronics 3-1437719-3 Cable Plug Low Voltage Supply Cable Plug Insertion View Pins 1 & 2: 0 V Low Voltage Supply Pin Pins 3 &...

  • Page 148: Appendix B: Mechanical Drawings

    Appendix B: Mechanical Drawings Air Cooled Models Version 1.0 Monday, December 12, 2022...
  • Page 149 Water Cooled Models Version 1.0 Monday, December 12, 2022...

  • Page 150: Appendix C: Dew Point Graph

    Appendix C: Dew Point Graph To avoid issues with condensation, the coolant temperature must be set above the dewpoint- the temperature at which condensation (dew) will form. In the relatively dry conditions of an air conditioned lab, or a cool dry climate, use of a coolant temperature of 10°C should not cause any problems.

  • Page 151: Appendix D: Other Information

    Appendix D: Other Information Terms and Conditions of Sale and Warranty Information The terms and conditions of sale, including warranty conditions, will have been made available during the ordering process. The current version for the US is available here, for all other regions (except Japan) please click here.

  • Page 152: Appendix E: China Rohs Hazardous Substances Declaration

    Appendix E: China RoHS Hazardous Substances Declaration Hazardous Substance: 有 害 物 质 Lead Chromium VI Diphenyl Component Name 部 Mercury Cadmium Polybrominated (Pb) Compounds Ethers 件 名 称 (Hg)汞 (Cd)镉 Biphenyls (PBB) 铅 (Cr6+) (PBDE) Printed Circuit Board Assembly (FPGA (U14), Surface-mount Resistors and Capacitors, and Brass...
  • Page 153 O - The content of such a hazardous substance in all homogeneous materials of such a component is below the limit required by GB/T 26572 表示该 有 害物 质 在 该 部 件 所有 均质 材 料中的含 量均在 O -表示 该有 害 物质 在 该部 件 所有均...
  • Page 154 Component Name 部 件 名 称   D.C. Power Socket on USB Board USB 板上 的 直 流 电源 插 座 Version 1.0 Monday, December 12, 2022...

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