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Princeton Instruments MicroMAX User Manual

High-speed, low-noise ccd camera
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4411-0039-CE
Version 4.A
November 26, 2001
 

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  • Page 1 4411-0039-CE Version 4.A November 26, 2001  ...
  • Page 2 The information in this publication is believed to be accurate as of the publication release date. However, Roper Scientific, Inc. does not assume any responsibility for any consequences including any damages resulting from the use thereof. The information contained herein is subject to change without notice.

  • Page 3: Table Of Contents

    Precautions ........................14 Repairs ..........................14 Cleaning ..........................14 Camera and Controller ....................14 Optical Surfaces......................14 Roper Scientific Customer Service ...................14 Chapter 2 Installation Overview ............... 15 Chapter 3 System Setup ................... 17 Unpacking the System.......................17 Checking the Equipment and Parts Inventory..............17 Power Requirements ......................18 Verifying Controller Voltage Setting................18...
  • Page 4 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 4.A Chapter 4 Operation ..................27 Introduction........................27 EMF and Xenon or Hg Arc Lamps ...................27 Vacuum ..........................27 Cooling..........................27 Setting the Temperature .....................28 Temperature Stabilization ..................28 Baseline Signal........................28 Imaging Field of View ......................29 RS-170 or CCIR Video .....................29 First Light..........................31...
  • Page 5 Table of Contents Chapter 7 MicroMAX DIF Camera (Double Image Feature)......65 Introduction........................65 Timing Modes ........................66 Free Run ........................66 IEC (Internal Exposure Control) ................68 EEC (External Exposure Control) ................70 ESABI (Electronic Shutter Active Between Images)..........71 Tips and Tricks .........................72 Lab Illumination ......................72 Background Subtraction .....................72...
  • Page 6 Appendix E Repumping the Vacuum............. 119 Introduction........................119 Requirements ........................119 Vacuum Pumpdown Procedure..................120 Warranty & Service..................123 Limited Warranty: Roper Scientific Analytical Instrumentation........123 Limited One (1) Year Warranty ................123 Sealed Chamber Integrity Warranty .................123 Vacuum Integrity Warranty..................123 Image Intensifier Detector Warranty................123 X-Ray Detector Warranty..................124...
  • Page 7 Table of Contents Index ......................... 127 Figures Figure 1. MicroMAX Cameras and Controller..............9 Figure 2. Standard System Diagram ................16 Figure 3. 5 MHz System Diagram ...................16 Figure 4. Controller Power Input Module................18 Figure 5. Bottom Clamps ....................22 Figure 6. Bottom Clamp secured to Relay Lens ..............23 Figure 7.
  • Page 8 Table 10. ST-133 Shutter Drive Selection...............85 Table 11. I/O Address & Interrupt Assignments before Installing Serial Card....93 Table 12. I/O Address & Interrupt Assignments after Installing Serial Card....93 Table 13. MicroMAX:512BFT: Virtual Chip Size, Exposure Time, and Frames per Second........................112...

  • Page 9: Chapter 1 Introduction

    CCD, advanced exposure-control timing, video output, and sophisticated readout capabilities. Among the advantages of the MicroMAX concept are the range of CCD arrays available and the built-in video output mode. The system can be configured either with a variety of interline CCDs to provide true 12-bit images at a readout rate of up to 5 million pixels per second, or with a number of back-illuminated CCDs to provide true 16-bit images.

  • Page 10: Controller

    Surface mount electronic technology is used wherever possible, giving a compact package with uncompromising performance. Depending on your application, the camera included in your MicroMAX system will be either a compact round camera head or a high performance, cooled, rectangular camera head.

  • Page 11: Applications

    (16-bit). Switching between the two modes is under software control for total experiment automation. The 5 MHz MicroMAX Controller provides 12-bit digitization at 5 MHz., resulting in a frame readout time of 0.33 seconds per full frame.

  • Page 12: About This Manual

    About this Manual Manual Organization This manual provides the user with all the information needed to install a MicroMAX camera and place it in operation. Topics covered include a detailed description of the camera, installation, cleaning, specifications and more.

  • Page 13: Safety Related Symbols Used In This Manual

    Chapter 1 Introduction Appendix D, Virtual Chip Mode describes how to set up and use the Virtual Chip option, a special fast-acquisition technique. Appendix E, Repumping the Vacuum explains how to restore the 1 MHz or 100kHz/1MHz round head camera's vacuum if that vacuum has deteriorated over time.

  • Page 14: Precautions

    Never operate the camera cooled without proper evacuation or backfill. This could damage the CCD! Never connect or disconnect any cable while the MicroMAX 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.

  • Page 15: Chapter 2 Installation Overview

    Chapter 2 Installation Overview The list and diagrams below briefly describe the sequence of actions required to hookup your system and prepare to gather data. Refer to the indicated references for more detailed information. This list assumes that the application software is Princeton Instruments WinView/32.

  • Page 16: Figure 2. Standard System Diagram

    MicroMAX System User Manual Version 4.A Action Reference 11. If using a microscope Xenon or an Hg arc lamp, turn it on before Chapter 4 turning on the controller and host computer. Operation, page 27 12. Turn the Controller ON.

  • Page 17: Chapter 3 System Setup

    During the unpacking, check the system components for possible signs of shipping damage. If there are any, notify Roper Scientific and file a claim with the carrier. If damage is not apparent but camera or controller specifications cannot be achieved, internal damage may have occurred in shipment.

  • Page 18: Power Requirements

    100, 120, 220, or 240 V AC. The power consumption is nominally 200 watts and the line frequency can range from 47 to 63 Hz. The MicroMAX camera receives its power from the controller, which in turn plugs into a source of AC power. The plug on the line cord supplied with the system should be compatible with the line-voltage outlets in common use in the region to which the system is shipped.

  • Page 19: Mounting The Camera

    Mounting to a Microscope, beginning on page 20. Mounting the Lens The MicroMAX camera is supplied with the lens mount specified when the system was ordered, normally either a screw-type C-mount lens or a bayonet type F-mount lens, allowing a lens of the corresponding type to be mounted quickly and easily.

  • Page 20: Mounting To A Microscope

    (contact factory for current CCD specifications). Another feature to exploit is the high resolution offered by cameras with exceptionally small pixel sizes (6.7 µm for MicroMAX:1300Y, 1300YHS, and 1300YHS-DIF or 8.3µm for MicroMAX:782Y and 782YHS). Given that sufficient detail is preserved, you can use 2x2 binning (or higher) to increase the light collected at each “super-pixel”...
  • Page 21 Chapter 3 System Setup C-Mount For a camera equipped with a C-mount thread, use the standard C-mount adapter supplied by the microscope manufacturer to attach the camera to the microscope. The adapter can be screwed into the camera and then the assembly can be secured to the microscope using the standard setscrews on the microscope.

  • Page 22: Figure 5. Bottom Clamps

    F-mount nose. Roper Scientific DOES NOT advise using an F-mount to secure the camera to a bottom port of an inverted microscope due to possible failure of the locking mechanism of the F-mount.

  • Page 23: Figure 6. Bottom Clamp Secured To Relay Lens

    Chapter 3 System Setup HRP 100-NIK "L" bottom clamp Figure 6. Bottom Clamp secured to Relay Lens Microscope optics have very high transmission efficiencies in the infrared region of the CAUTION spectrum. Since typical microscope light sources are very good emitters in the infrared, some microscopes are equipped with IR blockers or heat filters to prevent heating of optical elements or the sample.

  • Page 24: Installing The Application Software

    Note: WinView/32 (versions 2.5.0 and higher) do not support the ISA interface. Installing the Interface Card If the computer is purchased from Roper Scientific, it will be shipped with the Serial Buffer card already installed. PCI Interface boards are standard. In the past, ISA had been supported but with WinView/32 versions 2.5.0 and higher, this support is no longer available.

  • Page 25: Connecting The Taxi (Controller-Computer) Cable

    Chapter 3 System Setup To Install an ISA Serial Card: Support for ISA Serial boards has been discontinued as of the release of WinView/32 version 2.5.0. Earlier versions of the software still support this board. If you are using an earlier version of the WinView software and want to install an ISA card, contact the factory for instructions.
  • Page 26 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 4.A To Connect the Camera Power/Camera Signal Cables (5 MHz only): 1. Verify that the Controller power is OFF. Note: When installing the cable assembly at the Controller, the 15-pin Camera Power connector must be installed before the 40-pin Camera Signal connector. If removing the cable assembly, this sequence is reversed.

  • Page 27: Chapter 4 Operation

    We advise that you place a clear warning sign on the power button of your arc lamp reminding all workers to follow this procedure. While Roper Scientific has taken great care to isolate its sensitive circuitry from EMF sources, we cannot guarantee that this protection will be sufficient for all EMF bursts.

  • Page 28: Setting The Temperature

    MicroMAX CCDs typically have the following temperature ranges: Better than -15°C with passive cooling and under vacuum Better than -30°C with the optional forced air accessory and under vacuum...

  • Page 29: Imaging Field Of View

    One of the limitations of scientific non-video rate cameras has been their difficulty in focusing and locating fields of view. The MicroMAX solves this problem by its combination of high speed operation with the implementation of true video output. The...

  • Page 30: Figure 9. Monitor Display Of Ccd Image Center Area

    MicroMAX:782Y, MicroMAX:782YHS or MicroMAX:512BFT In the case of a MicroMAX:1300YHS or a MicroMAX:1300YHS-DIF, the number of array pixels far exceeds the number of monitor pixels and mapping must be considered more carefully. WinView/32 software’s Video Focus mode (accessed from the...

  • Page 31: First Light

    Once the MicroMAX camera has been installed and its optics adjusted, operation of the camera is basically straightforward. In most applications you simply establish optimum...

  • Page 32: Cabling

    MicroMAX System User Manual Version 4.A Camera-Controller Cable Assy. TAXI cable (Serial Com) 110/220 Camera Camera Camera Serial 110/220 Signal Controller Microscope Computer EXPERIMENT Figure 11. 5 MHz System Diagram Cabling If the system cables haven’t as yet been installed, connect them as follows (system power OFF): If the system cables haven’t as yet been installed, connect them as follows (system...

  • Page 33: Getting Started

    Controller|Camera tab page (Setup|Hardware) Controller type: ST-133 Controller version: 4 or higher Camera type: Select array installed in your camera. MicroMAX:512BFT = EEV 512×512 FT CCD57 MicroMAX:782Y = PID 582×782 MicroMAX:782YHS = PID 582×782 MicroMAX:1024B = EEV 1024×1024 CCD47_10 MicroMAX:1300Y = PID 1030×1300 MicroMAX:1300YHS = PID 1030×1300...

  • Page 34: Focusing

    MicroMAX:1300Y camera (1030×1300 pixels), set the Pan selector as required for the 756×486 subset of the array image you wish to use for focusing purposes. Select the center pan position if the camera is a MicroMAX:782Y (782×582 pixels) or a MicroMAX:512BFT (512×512 pixels). Begin data collection by selecting RUN on the Interactive Camera Operation dialog box.
  • Page 35 Chapter 4 Operation 2. Adjust the lens aperture, intensity scaling, and focus for the best image as viewed on the monitor. Some imaging tips follow. a. Begin with the lens blocked off. Set the lens at the smallest possible aperture (largest f-stop number).

  • Page 36: Acquiring Data

    MicroMAX System User Manual Version 4.A Set screws to lock front part of adapter in place Lens release lever Front part of adapter for adjusting focus Figure 12. F-mount Focus Adjustment Acquiring Data Once optimum focus and aperture have been achieved, you can switch from...

  • Page 37: Chapter 5 Timing Modes

    Full Speed operation is primarily for collecting “real-time” sequences of experimental data, where timing is critical and events cannot be missed. Once the MicroMAX is sent the Start Acquisition command (STARTACQ) by the computer, all frames are collected without further intervention from the computer. The advantage of this timing mode is that timing is controlled completely through hardware.

  • Page 38: Standard Timing Modes

    PreOpen, available in the External Sync mode, opens the shutter as soon as the MicroMAX is ready to receive an External Sync pulse. This is required if the time between the External Sync pulse and the event is less than a few milliseconds, the time it takes the shutter to open.

  • Page 39: Figure 13. Chart Of Full Speed (Synchronous) And Safe (Asynchronous)

    Chapter 5 Timing Modes Safe Mode (Asynchronous) Full Speed Mode (Synchronous) Start Start Computer programs Computer programs camera with exposure camera with exposure and binning parameters and binning parameters STARTACQ issued from STARTACQ issued from computer to camera computer to camera Cleans performed Cleans performed 1 frame collected...

  • Page 40: External Sync

    Figure 14. Free Run Timing Chart (part of the chart in Figure 13) Other experimental equipment can be synchronized to the MicroMAX system by using the SCAN (NOTSCAN) signal. This TTL output for synchronous operation is shown in Figure 15.

  • Page 41: Figure 16. Chart Showing Two External Sync Timing Options

    As soon as the controller is ready to collect data the shutter opens. Upon arrival of the first External Sync pulse at the MicroMAX, the shutter remains open for the specified exposure period, closes, and the CCD is read out. As soon as readout is complete the shutter reopens and waits for the next frame.

  • Page 42: External Sync With Continuous Cleans

    External Sync with Continuous Cleans The third timing mode available with the MicroMAX camera is called Continuous Cleans. In addition to the standard “cleaning” of the array, which occurs after the controller is enabled, Continuous Cleans will remove any charge from the array until the moment the External Sync pulse is received.

  • Page 43: Frame Transfer Operation

    Chapter 5 Timing Modes Note: If EXT SYNC is still active at the end of the readout, the hardware will interpret this as a second sync pulse, and so on. Open Close Open Close Open Close Shutter (Normal) Open Close Open Close Open...

  • Page 44: Figure 20. Frame Transfer Where T W1 + T Exp + T C < T R

    MicroMAX System User Manual Version 4.A SCAN low). More specifically, if the readout time, t , is greater than the sum of t , the time the controller waits for the first External Sync pulse, plus t , the programmed...

  • Page 45: Interline Operation

    Chapter 5 Timing Modes Shutter Monitor actual exposure time Notscan External Sync (negative polarity shown) cleans acquisition Figure 21. Frame Transfer where t > t Shutter Monitor actual exposure time Notscan External Sync (negative polarity shown) cleans acquisition Figure 22. Frame Transfer where Pulse arrives after Readout Interline Operation Operating Modes It is important to note that an interline chip can operate in either of two operating modes,...

  • Page 46: Timing Options In Overlapped Readout Mode

    MicroMAX System User Manual Version 4.A Non-overlapped: This operation mode is automatically selected by the controlling software when the exposure time is less than the readout time. In non-overlapped operation, the image is transferred to the storage cells at the end of the exposure time and no further accumulation occurs (the imaging cells are switched off).

  • Page 47: Figure 23. Overlapped Mode Where T W1 + T Exp + T C < T R

    Chapter 5 Timing Modes at the Ext Sync connector. The exposure ends on completion of the programmed Exposure Time. Then the data acquired during the first exposure is read out while the next frame of data is being acquired. This pattern continues for the duration of the experiment so that, during each frame, the data acquired during the previous frame is read out.

  • Page 48: Figure 25. Overlapped Mode Where Pulse Arrives After Readout

    MicroMAX System User Manual Version 4.A Shutter Monitor actual exposure time Notscan External Sync (negative polarity shown) cleans acquisition Figure 25. Overlapped Mode where Pulse arrives after Readout...

  • Page 49: Chapter 6 Exposure And Readout

    The remainder of this chapter describes the exposure, readout, and digitization of the image. Included are descriptions of binning for imaging applications and the specialized MicroMAX timing modes. Exposure Charge coupled devices can be roughly thought of as a two-dimensional grid of individual photodiodes (called pixels), each connected to its own charge storage “well.”...

  • Page 50: Exposure With An Interline Array

    Unintensified full-frame CCD cameras like the MicroMAX use a mechanical shutter to prevent light from reaching the CCD during readout. ICCD (intensified) cameras use an image intensifier to gate the light on and off.

  • Page 51: Exposure With An Image Intensifier

    Exposure with an Image Intensifier Although the standard MicroMAX camera is not intensified, it is possible to connect it to a lens-coupled intensifier. Contact the factory if you are interested in more information about operating an intensified version of the MicroMAX system.

  • Page 52: Saturation

    MicroMAX System User Manual Version 4.A Interline For interline CCDs, image smearing may occur due to a small amount of light leaking through to the storage cells during the readout time. In the case of lens-coupled intensified cameras (ICCDs), this effect can be eliminated by using a fast phosphor and gating the intensifier at the same frame rate as the CCD.

  • Page 53: Array Readout

    Chapter 6 Exposure and Readout Array Readout In this section, a simple 6  4 pixel CCD is used to demonstrate how charge is shifted and digitized. As described below, two different types of readout are available. Full frame readout, for full frame CCDs, reads out the entire CCD surface at the same time. Frame transfer operation assumes half of the CCD is for data collection and half of the array is a temporary storage area.

  • Page 54: Table 3. Approximate Readout Time For The Full-Frame Ccd Array

    MicroMAX System User Manual Version 4.A digitized is the second column moved into the shift register. The order of shifting in our example is therefore D6, C6, B6, A6, D5, C5, B5, A5, D4..After charge is shifted out of each pixel the remaining charge is zero, meaning that the array is immediately ready for the next exposure.

  • Page 55: Frame Transfer

    Exposure and Readout Frame Transfer The MicroMAX fully supports frame transfer readout. Operation in this mode is very similar to the operation of video rate cameras. Half of the CCD is exposed continuously, raising the exposure duty cycle to nearly 100%. The other half of the CCD is masked to prevent exposure, and it is here that the image is “stored”...

  • Page 56: Interline

    MicroMAX System User Manual Version 4.A Interline In this section, a simple 6  3 pixel interline CCD is used to demonstrate how charge is shifted and digitized. As described below, two different types of readout, overlapped and non-overlapped can occur. In overlapped operation, each exposure begins while the readout of the previous one is still in progress.

  • Page 57: Figure 30. Overlapped Mode Exposure And Readout

    Chapter 6 Exposure and Readout Empty Readout Register. Exposure Image has been shifted to storage cells, first has ended and image is being line has been shifted to Readout Register, transferred to storage cells. and second exposure begins. Charge from first cell has been After first image is read out,storage cells are shifted to the Output Node.

  • Page 58: Figure 31. Non-Overlapped Mode Exposure And Readout

    MicroMAX System User Manual Version 4.A Part 4 of Figure 31 illustrates the situation at the end of the readout. Both the imaging and storage cells are empty. In Free Run operation, the imaging cells will be switched back on immediately, allowing charge accumulation to begin.

  • Page 59: Binning

    CCD Array 1 MHz Readout 5 MHz Readout MicroMAX:782Y 0.5 sec. for full frame Sony ICX075 782 x 582 MicroMAX:782YHS 0.11 sec. for full frame...

  • Page 60: Figure 32. 2 × 2 Binning For Full Frame Ccd

    MicroMAX System User Manual Version 4.A render the camera photon shot noise limited, the S/N ratio improvement is roughly proportional to the square-root of the number of pixels binned. Figure 32 shows an example of 2  2 binning for a full frame CCD array. Each pixel of the image displayed by the software represents 4 pixels of the array.

  • Page 61: Figure 33. 2 × 2 Binning For Interline Ccd

    Chapter 6 Exposure and Readout On-Chip Binning for Interline Binning is the process of adding the data from adjacent cells together), and it can be accomplished in either hardware or software. Rectangular groups of cells of any size may be binned together, subject to some hardware and software limitations. Hardware binning is performed before the signal is read out by the preamplifier.

  • Page 62: Digitization

    A/D converters with different readout rates selectable through software. Dual A/D Converters There is provision in the MicroMAX Camera for two A/D converters to provide optimum signal-to-noise ratios at both readout speeds. Because the readout noise of CCD arrays increases with the readout rate, it is sometimes necessary to trade off readout speed for high dynamic range.
  • Page 63 Chapter 6 Exposure and Readout always be nosier than one designed for optimum noise performance. The MicroMAX camera can be provided with two analog converters, one optimized for high speed, the other for high precision, as a solution to this problem. For the most common system configurations, there will be a 1 MHz converter for the fastest possible data collection, and a 100 kHz converter for use where noise performance is the paramount concern.
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  • Page 65: Chapter 7 Micromax Dif Camera (Double Image Feature)

    (Double Image Feature) Introduction This Appendix describes operation of the MicroMAX DIF system. Both the Controller and a MicroMAX Interline camera must have factory modifications installed for DIF operation. In addition to the internal changes and installation of a back panel switch, a camera modified for DIF operation would ordinarily include a mechanical shutter.

  • Page 66: Timing Modes

    Notes: A MicroMAX DIF camera has a switch on its back panel that is not present in standard MicroMAX cameras. This switch must be set to the ACTIVE position for operation in the ESABI timing mode.

  • Page 67: Figure 34. Free Run Mode Timing Diagram

    Chapter 7 MicroMAX DIF Camera Figure 34. Thus the positive going edge of the READY output marks the start of the first exposure. In Free Run operation, the time that READY remains low will typically be in the range of 400 to 600 ns.

  • Page 68: Iec (Internal Exposure Control)

    MicroMAX System User Manual Version 4.A Summary of Free Run Timing mode Allows user to capture single images. Requires that the switch on the back of the DIF camera be set to INACTIVE. Uses Exposure Time set via software Experiment Setup.

  • Page 69: Figure 37. Timing Diagram For Typical Iec Measurement

    Chapter 7 MicroMAX DIF Camera 200 ns EXT. SYNC. READY 1st Image 5 µs 2nd Image 5 µs Mechanical Shutter 8 ms 8 ms Figure 37. Timing Diagram for Typical IEC Measurement Figure 38 illustrates the interconnections that might be used for such an experiment with two lasers.

  • Page 70: Eec (External Exposure Control)

    MicroMAX System User Manual Version 4.A Example 2: As shown in Figure 40, the READY signal from the controller can be used to trigger the controller by connecting it back into the EXT SYNC connector. At the same time, it can be used to trigger a DG-535.

  • Page 71: Esabi (Electronic Shutter Active Between Images)

    Chapter 7 MicroMAX DIF Camera supplied by the user is required to initiate the imaging process and control the first image exposure time. The controller READY signal goes low when the camera is ready to begin imaging. Figure 41 illustrates an EEC timing example.

  • Page 72: Tips And Tricks

    MicroMAX System User Manual Version 4.A READY trig EXT. SYNC. (A) Signal Integration 1st Image 2nd Image Figure 42. ESABI Timing Example: Image Exposure time = t set in software Note: The input trigger pulse, t , must be shorter than the exposure time t .

  • Page 73: Flatfield Correction

    Chapter 7 MicroMAX DIF Camera controller as well as time-dependent (but constant for a fixed integration time) buildup of dark charge. The background subtract equation is: (Raw image data – Background) = Corrected image data. When background and flatfield operations are both performed, background subtraction is always performed first.
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  • Page 75: Chapter 8 Ttl Control

    Chapter 8 TTL Control Introduction This connector provides 8 TTL lines in, 8 TTL lines out and an input control line. Figure 43 illustrates the connector and Table 9 lists the signal/pin assignments. Princeton Instruments WinView/32 software packages incorporate WinX32 Automation, a programming language that can be used to automate performing a variety of data acquisition and data processing functions, including use of the TTL IN/OUT functions.

  • Page 76: Buffered Vs. Latched Inputs

    The state of the TTL OUT lines is set from WinView/32. Typically, a program monitoring the experiment sets one or more of the TTL Outputs. Apparatus external to the MicroMAX system interrogates the lines and, on detecting the specified logic levels, takes the action appropriate to the detected condition.

  • Page 77: Ttl Diagnostics Screen

    Note: In WinView software versions prior to 1.6, Output Lines 5, 6, 7, and 8 are shown checked in the default state, incorrectly indicating that their default state is logic 1 in the MicroMAX. Hardware Interface A cable will be needed to connect the TTL In/Out connector to the experiment. The design will vary widely according to each user’s needs, but a standard 25-pin female type...

  • Page 78: Example

    MicroMAX System User Manual Version 4.A Shielded Metalized hood (Radio Shack part no 276-1536A). BNC connector(s) type UG-88 Male BNC connector (Radio Shack part no 278-103). Example Suppose you needed to build a cable to monitor the line TTL OUT 1. One approach would be to build a cable assembly as described in the following paragraphs.

  • Page 79: Chapter 9 System Component Descriptions

    MicroMAX cameras are normally shipped with a vacuum level of ~10 mTorr or better. Because this vacuum may deteriorate over time due to outgassing of electrical components, round head MicroMAX cameras are designed with a built-in vacuum port that can be used to restore the vacuum to its original level.
  • Page 80 Connectors: Power, control signals, and data are transmitted between the ST-133 and the MicroMAX camera via the 25-pin D connector located on the rear of the 1 MHz or 100kHz/1 MHz camera. For the 5 MHz camera, these are provided via the 15-pin and 40- pin connectors on the rear of the camera.
  • Page 81 Chapter 9 System Component Descriptions drawn into the camera by the internal fan and exhausted through the back panel. The fan is always in operation and air cooling of both the Peltier and the internal electronics takes place continuously. The fan is designed for low-vibration and does not adversely affect the image.

  • Page 82: St-133 Controller

    MicroMAX System User Manual Version 4.A ST-133 Controller Electronics: The Model ST-133 is a compact, high performance CCD Camera Controller for operation with Princeton Instruments cameras. Designed for high speed and high performance image acquisition, the ST-133 offers data transfer at speeds up to 5 megapixel per second, standard video output for focusing and alignment.

  • Page 83: Figure 45. St-133 Rear Panel

    Chapter 9 System Component Descriptions The Analog/Control Module, which should always be located in the left-most slot, provides the following functions. Pixel A/D conversion Timing and synchronization of readouts CCD scan control Temperature control Exposure control Video output control The Interface Control Module, which should always be located in the center slot, provides the following functions.
  • Page 84 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 4.A The descriptions of the rear panel connectors that follow are keyed to Figure 45. Feature 1. Temperature Lock LED: Indicates that the temperature control loop has locked and that the temperature of the CCD array will be stable to within 0.05C.

  • Page 85: Table 10. St-133 Shutter Drive Selection

    Chapter 9 System Component Descriptions Feature 12. Camera Pwr: (5 MHz system) Provides the power to operate the camera. The power cable must be connected before the Camera Signal cable is connected. 13. Fan: Cools the controller electronics. Runs continuously when the controller is turned on. Do not block the side vents or the fan exhaust port.

  • Page 86: Cables

    DB-25 Male connectors with slide-latch locking hardware. This cable interconnects the Detector connector on the rear of the ST-133 with the Detector connector on the back of the MicroMAX camera. The Detector-Controller cable is also available in 6', 15', 20', and 30' lengths.

  • Page 87: Application Software

    ). WinView/32 also features snap-ins and macro record functions to permit easy user customization of any function or sequence. PVCAM is the standard software interface for cooled CCD cameras from Roper Scientific. is a library of functions that can be used to control and acquire data from the camera when a custom application is being written.
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  • Page 89: Chapter 10 Troubleshooting

    Chapter 10 Troubleshooting Do not attach or remove any cables while the MicroMAX system is powered on. WARNING! Introduction The following issues have corresponding troubleshooting sections in this chapter. Baseline Signal Suddenly Changes Page 89 Changing the ST-133's Line Voltage and...

  • Page 90: Controller Is Not Responding

    MicroMAX System User Manual Version 4.A 1. As shown in Figure 47, place the flat Required side of a flat bladed screwdriver Fuses Voltage parallel to the rear of the Controller 50-60Hz 300 W MAX. 50-60Hz 300 W MAX. Ranges...

  • Page 91: Cooling Troubleshooting

    Chapter 10 Troubleshooting interface component selected: "PCI Interface" or "ISA Interface", depending on the interface card type. Be sure to deselect the interface component that does not apply to your system. Note: WinView/32 (versions 2.5.0 and higher) do not support the ISA interface. Cooling Troubleshooting Temperature Lock cannot be Achieved or Maintained.

  • Page 92: Detector Stops Working

    Detector Stops Working Problems with the host computer system or software may have side effects that appear to be hardware problems. If you are sure the problem is in the MicroMAX system hardware, begin with these simple checks:  Turn off all AC power.

  • Page 93: Table 11. I/O Address & Interrupt Assignments Before Installing Serial Card

    Chapter 10 Troubleshooting conflict occurs, because the user has no control over the PCI address and interrupt assignments, there will be no recourse but to examine the .ISA assignments and change them to values which do not conflict. Most (but by no means all) ISA cards make provision for selecting alternative I/O addresses and interrupt levels so that conflicts can be resolved.
  • Page 94 Version 4.A address and interrupt assignments for each PCI device in the computer. One such program available from Roper Scientific's Technical Support department is called PCICHECK. When the program is run, it reports the address and interrupt assignments for the first PCI device it finds. Each time the spacebar is pressed, it moves on to the next one and reports the address and interrupt assignments for that one as well.

  • Page 95: Removing/Installing A Plug-In Module

    Chapter 10 Troubleshooting Removing/Installing a Plug-In Module The ST-133 Controller has three plug-in slots. The Analog/Control module (leftmost slot when the controller is viewed from the rear) and the Interface Control module (middle slot) are always provided. The third slot, however, is always covered with a blank panel. If a module is ever removed for any reason, internal settings should not be disturbed.

  • Page 96: Shutter Malfunctions

    MicroMAX System User Manual Version 4.A To Install a Module: Installing a module is a bit more complex because you first have to be sure the locking screws are aligned correctly. The following procedure is suggested. 1. Rotate the two locking screws counterclockwise until the threads on the screws engage those of the module panel.

  • Page 97: Appendix A Specifications

    CCD Arrays Spectral Range Typically: 370-900 for MicroMAX:512BFT and 1024B 400-1000 for MicroMAX:782Y, 782YHS 300-1080 for MicroMAX:1300Y, 1300YHS, and 1300YHS-DIF Types The following list is not necessarily current. Other chips may also be available. Contact the factory for up-to-date information. Model...

  • Page 98: Cooling

    MicroMAX System User Manual Version 4.A Range: At 25 ambient, the MicroMAX camera will typically lock to: -15C with passive cooling and with the camera under vacuum. -30C with the accessory fan installed and under vacuum. Time to Lock: At 25 ambient, <10 minutes (typical) to temperature lock at -15 C Control Precision: 0.050C over entire temperature range...

  • Page 99: Inputs

    Exposure (integration time): 5 msec to 23 hours (full frame or frame transfer) Computer Requirements The MicroMAX is most commonly used with a Pentium computer configured as follows. Type: Any Pentium (or better) PC having a free slot for the Serial Buffer card (PCI is standard;...

  • Page 100: Miscellaneous

    MicroMAX System User Manual Version 4.A Operating System: Windows 95 or NT for WinView/32. Windows 3.1 required for 16 bit versions of WinView. Interface: PCI High-Speed Serial I/O card is standard. Other types may be available. Contact factory for information.

  • Page 101: Appendix B Outline Drawings

    Appendix B Outline Drawings 8.75 Figure 50. Controller Dimensions...

  • Page 102: Figure 51. Rectangular Camera Head: C-Mount

    MicroMAX System User Manual Version 4.A C-MOUNT (1.00-32 THREAD) 4.63 4.63 0.500 COOLING AIR INLET TYPICAL BOTH SIDES OPTIONAL TRIPOD COOLING AIR OUTLET MOUNT KIT TYPICAL BOTH SIDES (2550-0312) DB-25 MALE GAIN SWITCH ACCESS TO CONTROLLER 2.41 2.25 3.16 1.14 ALLOW 1.5”...

  • Page 103: Figure 52. Rectangular Camera Head: F-Mount

    Appendix B Outline Drawings F-MOUNT (2 3/8” - 20 THREAD NIKON ADAPTER SHOWN 4.63 4.63 0.50 COOLING AIR INLET TYPICAL BOTH SIDES COOLING AIR OUTLET TYPICAL BOTH SIDES OPTIONAL TRIPOD MOUNT KIT (2550-0312) DB-25 MALE GAIN SWITCH ACCESS TO CONTROLLER 3.16 1.14 EXTERNAL SHUTTER JACK...

  • Page 104: Figure 53. 1 Mhz And 100Khz/1Mhz Round Head Camera: C-Mount Adapter And Shutter

    MicroMAX System User Manual Version 4.A Figure 53. 1 MHz and 100kHz/1MHz Round Head Camera: C-Mount Adapter and Shutter...

  • Page 105: Figure 54. 5 Mhz Round Head Camera: C-Mount Adapter

    Appendix B Outline Drawings Figure 54. 5 MHz Round Head Camera: C-Mount Adapter...

  • Page 106: Figure 55. 1 Mhz Round Head Camera: F-Mount Adapter

    MicroMAX System User Manual Version 4.A Figure 55. 1 MHz Round Head Camera: F-Mount Adapter...

  • Page 107: Appendix C Kinetics Mode

    Appendix C Kinetics Mode Introduction Kinetics mode uses the CCD to expose and store a limited number of images in rapid succession. The time it takes to shift each line (or row) on the CCD is as short as a few hundred nanoseconds to few microseconds, depending on the CCD.

  • Page 108: Kinetic Timing Modes

    MicroMAX System User Manual Version 4.A Kinetic Timing Modes Kinetics mode operates with three timing modes: Free Run, Single Trigger, and Multiple Trigger. Figure 57. Hardware Setup dialog box Figure 58. Experiment Setup dialog box Free Run In the Free Run Kinetics mode, the controller takes a series of images, each with the Exposure time set through the software (in WinView32, the exposure time is set on the Experiment Setup|Main tab page).

  • Page 109: Single Trigger

    Appendix C Kinetics Mode START ACQUIRE command from the software issent automatically when ACQUIRE or FOCUS is clicked on in the software. START ACQUIRE Exposure Shutter Monitor Signal Shift Shutter Shutter opening closing time time Readout Not SCAN Signal Figure 59. Free Run Timing Diagram Single Trigger Single Trigger Kinetics mode takes an entire series of images with each External Trigger Pulse (applied at the Ext.

  • Page 110: Figure 61. Multiple Trigger Timing Diagram

    MicroMAX System User Manual Version 4.A START ACQUIRE command from the software issent automatically when ACQUIRE or FOCUS is clicked on in the software. START ACQUIRE External Triggers Exposure Shutter Monitor Signal Shift Shutter Shutter opening closing time time Readout Not SCAN Signal Figure 61.

  • Page 111: Appendix D Virtual Chip Mode

    1 MHz MicroMAX, that the camera have a frame transfer chip (MicroMAX:512BFT) and, that the file Wxvchip.opt be present in the same directory as the executable WinView/32 program. Contact Technical Support for information regarding the availability of Wxvchip.opt.

  • Page 112: Virtual Chip Setup

    60.2 30 x 30 1.51 12.2 82.0 Table 13. MicroMAX:512BFT: Virtual Chip Size, Exposure Time, and Frames per Second Virtual Chip Setup Introduction If the Virtual Chip mode option has been installed, both WinView/32 and WinSpec/32 will support this technique. The following procedure covers the basic hardware and software setup for Virtual Chip operation.

  • Page 113: Assumptions

    7. Turn on the host computer and select the WinView/32 icon. 8. From the Setup menu, select Hardware, and enter the following settings: Controller/CCD tab card Controller: MicroMAX Controller Version: 5 CCD Type: appropriate frame transfer array (EEV 512x512FT, for this...
  • Page 114 X direction. However, the set of choices for the Y-dimension has been pre- selected for optimal performance. Note that the origin point that Roper Scientific uses for a CCD array is 1,1. Chip Y Dimension: 47. Select this dimension from the drop down list.
  • Page 115 Appendix D Virtual Chip Mode 11. Click on the Load Default Values button. This enters the default ROI values. These values are: Start pixels of 1,1; End pixels based on the Chip Y and Chip X dimensions; and Groups of 1. Region of Interest: The settings below assume a 47x47 pixel ROI (i.e., the entire virtual chip).

  • Page 116: Experimental Timing

    MicroMAX System User Manual Version 4.A Experimental Timing Triggering can be achieved through the software via the timing mode Software Trigger (selectable on the dialog box, tab page) or it can be Experiment Setup Timing Mode achieved via the input on the rear of the camera. Triggering from the...

  • Page 117: Tips

    This would be 512 × 512 pixels at 15 microns per pixel = 7.68 mm × 7.68 mm for the MicroMAX. These masks should be anodized black to prevent reflections in the optical system and they should be very flat. These two sheets can then be slid relative to one another to achieve any rectangular shape required.
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  • Page 119: Appendix E Repumping The Vacuum

    Troubleshooting on page 91). Notes: 1. To minimize outgassing, all Roper Scientific detectors are vacuum baked at the factory. Nevertheless, new detectors will experience a higher outgassing rate than detectors that have been in operation for several months, and are more likely to require repumping.

  • Page 120: Vacuum Pumpdown Procedure

    MicroMAX System User Manual Version 4.A Figure 65. Vacuum Connector Required for Pumping Phillips screwdriver and a 3/16" nut driver, required to remove the back plate from the camera. Vacuum Pumpdown Procedure The instructions that follow are for a 1 MHz or 100kHz/1 MHz round head camera only.

  • Page 121: Figure 67. Attaching The Vacuum Connector

    Appendix E Repumping the Vacuum 7. Remove the vacuum system from the Vacuum Connector. While turning the top knob counterclockwise, remove the Vacuum Connector from the camera. Replace the back cover. Figure 67. Attaching the Vacuum Connector Figure 68. Opening the Camera to the Vacuum System...
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  • Page 123: Warranty & Service

    Roper Scientific warrants this product against defects in materials or workmanship for a period 1 year after the date of original invoice. During this period, Roper Scientific will repair a defective product or part, without charge to you. You must deliver the entire product to the Roper Scientific factory or, at our option, a factory authorized service center.

  • Page 124: X-Ray Detector Warranty

    Limited One (1) year warranty terms and conditions above. X-Ray Detector Warranty Roper Scientific warrants, with the exception of the CCD imaging device and fiber optic assembly damaged due to x-ray (which carry no warranty expressed or implied), all x-ray products for a period of 1 year after the date of the original invoice.

  • Page 125: Contact Information

    In no event shall Roper Scientific liability exceed the cost of the repair or replacement of the defective product or part.
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  • Page 127: Index

    Index Cautions (cont.) system verification 64-pin DIN connector 82, 96 zero adjustments A/D converters CCD arrays dual blooming specifications dark charge effects AC power requirements functions performed Actual exposure time 43, 46 maximum on-chip integration Air-circulation requirement readout of 53, 56 Analog channels readout theory Analog/Control module...
  • Page 128 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 4.A C-type lens mount External synchronization Dark charge definition of camera dynamic range ST-133 controller pattern Field of view temperature dependence formula for typical values First images procedure Dark current First Light Data smearing spectroscopy...
  • Page 129 102, 103 round head camera 104, 106 Overlapped operation Macintosh II support example Memory requirement External Sync MicroMAX system Free Run applications readout mode camera camera cooling system CCD array Pan function components of Parfocality...
  • Page 130 MicroMAX System User Manual Version 4.A Procedures Shutter (cont.) familiarization and checkout replacement of 81, 96 First images shutter setting selector (ST-133) line voltage selection and line fuse signs of failure 81, 96 plug-in module installation/removal ST-133 connector vacuum pumpdown...
  • Page 131 Index Timing modes (cont.) Warnings (cont.) DIF camera opening the power input module table of operation without evacuation or backfill Trap, vacuum Trinocular mount microscopes operation without proper evacuation 119 TTL In/Out connector overtightening the module screws TTL IN/OUT pin assignments power cord polarity protective grounding shutter connect or disconnect under...
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