Princeton Instruments ProEM+ EMCCD User Manual

Princeton Instruments ProEM+ EMCCD User Manual

Emccd cameras for imaging and spectroscopy
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EMCCD Cameras
For Imaging and
Spectroscopy

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Summary of Contents for Princeton Instruments ProEM+ EMCCD

  • Page 1 ProEM ® System Manual EMCCD Cameras For Imaging and Spectroscopy...
  • Page 2 4411-0144 Version 1.B January 07, 2012 4411-0144...
  • Page 3 The information in this publication is believed to be accurate as of the publication release date. However, Princeton Instruments 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. Revision of...
  • Page 4: Table Of Contents

    Table of Contents Chapter 1 Introduction ..................11 ® ProEM + Cameras ......................11 EMCCD Technology and On-Chip Multiplication Gain ..........11 Integrated Controller ......................12 Grounding and Safety ....................... 12 Precautions ........................13 UV Coating ........................13 Cleaning ..........................13 Camera ........................
  • Page 5 ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B Mounting the Adjustable C- to Spectroscopy-Mount Adapter ......... 31 Positioning the ProEM+:512BK Masks ................33 Opening/Closing ProEM+:1600 Manual Shutter .............. 33 Making the Camera-Circulator Connections for a CoolCUBE ........34 Software Installation ......................35 WinX ..........................
  • Page 6 Table of Contents Fast and Safe Modes ......................82 Introduction ........................ 82 Fast Mode (WinX and LightField) ................82 Safe Mode (WinX) ..................... 83 LOGIC OUT Control ......................85 Kinetics Mode ........................86 Introduction ........................ 86 Kinetics Readout ......................87 Kinetics Timing Modes and Shutter Control..............
  • Page 7 ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B Smeared Images ......................117 TEC Fault LED comes on ....................117 WinX or LightField Crashes When Adding GigE Camera to System ........ 118 Appendix A Basic Specifications ..............121 Window ........................... 121 CCD Arrays ........................121 Mounts ..........................
  • Page 8 Table of Contents Index ......................... 147 Figures Figure 1. Comparison of ProEM+ Frame Transfer, Kinetics, and Full Frame EMCCD Array Structures .................... 12 Figure 2. Typical ProEM+ System Components ............. 17 Figure 3. Typical Imaging Experiment Layout with Air-cooled Camera ......24 Figure 4.
  • Page 9 ® viii ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B Figure 43. WinX Continuous Cleans Timing Diagram ........... 81 Figure 44. LightField Clean Until Trigger (CUT) Timing Diagram ....... 81 Figure 45. Bulb Trigger {Expose During Trigger Pulse} Timing Diagram: Non-Overlap Mode, Three Exposure Sequence, No Preopen, No Continuous Cleans ..82 Figure 46.
  • Page 10 Table of Contents Tables Table 1. Major differences between dark current and clock-induced charge ....65 Table 2. Typical Controller Gains ................... 69 Table 3. ProEM+ Readout Rates ..................69 Table 4. Comparison of Kinetics and Spectra-Kinetics for ProEM+:512B/BK and ProEM+:1024B .....................
  • Page 11 ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B This page intentionally left blank.
  • Page 12: Chapter 1 Introduction

    Chapter 1 Introduction Thank you for purchasing a ProEM+ EMCCD camera system from Princeton Instruments. Your system has been thoroughly tested to meet Princeton Instruments’ exacting standards and to meet the demanding requirements of many low light level imaging applications.
  • Page 13: Integrated Controller

    For more information, refer to the "On-Chip Multiplication Gain" technical note. This technical note can be accessed by going to the Princeton Instruments web site at www.princetoninstruments.com. Integrated Controller The operation of the ProEM+ camera is regulated by its internal controller. These electronics contain the circuitry required to accept input from the host computer and software and convert it to appropriate control signals for the camera.
  • Page 14: Precautions

    Chapter 1 Introduction Inspect the supplied power cord. If it is not compatible with the power socket, replace the cord with one that has suitable connectors on both ends. Replacement power cords or power plugs must have the same polarity as that of the WARNING! original ones to avoid hazard due to electrical shock.
  • Page 15: Repairs

    Repairs Because the ProEM+ camera system contains no user-serviceable parts, repairs must be performed by Princeton Instruments. Should your system need repair, contact Princeton Instruments customer support for instructions. For contact information, refer to page 146 of this manual.
  • Page 16: Safety Related Symbols Used In This Manual

    Chapter 1 Introduction Chapter 7, Tips provides tips regarding CCD ageing, maximizing throughput, and reducing readout time. Chapter 8, Troubleshooting provides courses of action to take if you should have problems with your system. Appendix A, Specifications includes camera specifications. Appendix B, Outline Drawings includes outline drawings of the various ProEM+ cameras, the camera power supply, and the CoolCUBE circulator.
  • Page 17 ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B This page intentionally left blank.
  • Page 18: Chapter 2 System Component Descriptions

    Chapter 2 System Component Descriptions System Components Standard Components A typical ProEM+ EMCCD camera system consists of the camera head (with built-in ® shutter), a power supply (with power cable), and an Intel PRO/1000 GigE card for your computer, a Gigabit Ethernet cable, MCX to BNC adapter cables, coolant hoses, and this manual.
  • Page 19: Proem+ Camera

    ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B ProEM+ Camera CCD Array: The ProEM+ camera systems are the most advanced EMCCD cameras available on the market today, utilizing the latest low-noise read out electronics and back- illuminated EMCCDs to deliver single photon sensitivity. In addition, these cameras feature, for the first time, the latest Gigabit Ethernet (GigE) interface that allows remote operation over a single cable without the need for custom frame grabbers.
  • Page 20 ® Shutter: LEMO connector provides the shutter drive pulses for driving a Princeton Instruments- supplied 25 mm external shutter. Camera power must be OFF before connecting to or disconnecting from this connector. Note: When there is an installed internal shutter, this connector cannot drive an external shutter.
  • Page 21: Coolant Circulator

    The coolant circulator can be any commercially available circulator (provided that it is capable of continuously pumping a 50:50 mixture of room temperature (23ºC) water and ethylene glycol at 1 liter per minute) or the Princeton Instruments CoolCUBE . Please contact the factory for recommendations.
  • Page 22: User Manuals

    7 operating systems). The manual is provided as a PDF on the installation CD. Additional information is available in the program's on-line help. Note: You can download current versions of Princeton Instruments manuals at ftp://ftp.princetoninstruments.com/public/Manuals/Princeton Instruments/. The most current versions of Acton manuals are located at ftp://ftp.princetoninstruments.com/public/Manuals/Acton/.
  • Page 23: Coolcube Ii Circulator

    PICam™: The standard 64-bit software interface for cooled CCD cameras from Princeton Instruments. PICam is an ANSI C library of camera control and data acquisition functions. Currently, the interface supports Windows Vista and Windows 7.
  • Page 24: Chapter 3 Installation Overview

    Chapter 3 Installation Overview The list and diagrams below briefly describe the sequence of actions required to install your system and prepare to gather data. Refer to the indicated references for more detailed information. Action Reference 1. If the system components have not already been unpacked, unpack Chapter 4 System Setup, them and inspect their carton(s) and the system components for page 27...
  • Page 25: Figure 3. Typical Imaging Experiment Layout With Air-Cooled Camera

    ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B Action Reference 13. When the system reaches temperature lock, wait an additional Chapter 5 Operation: for 20 minutes and then begin acquiring data in focus mode. WinX, see page 43 or 47; for LightField page 53 or 14.
  • Page 26: Figure 5. Typical Spectroscopy Experiment Layout With Air-Cooled Camera And Isoplane

    Chapter 3 Installation Overview Figure 5. Typical Spectroscopy Experiment Layout with Air-cooled Camera and IsoPlane Figure 6. Typical Imaging Experiment Layout with Air/Liquid-cooled Camera...
  • Page 27: Figure 7. Typical Spectroscopy Experiment Layout With Air/Liquid-Cooled Camera

    ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B Figure 7. Typical Spectroscopy Experiment Layout with Air/Liquid-cooled Camera...
  • Page 28: Chapter 4 System Setup

    During the unpacking, check the system components for possible signs of shipping damage. If there are any, notify Princeton Instruments 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 29: Checking The Equipment And Parts Inventory

    Confirm that you have all of the equipment and parts required to set up the ProEM+ system. A complete system consists of: Camera Power Supply Host Computer: Can be purchased from Princeton Instruments or provided by user. For enhanced performance, a fast hard drive (10,000 rpm) and 2GB RAM is recommended. Operating System: ...
  • Page 30: Host Computer

    Chapter 4 System Setup installed on the line cord, taking care to maintain the proper polarity to protect the equipment and assure user safety. Maximum Power Output: 112 W Input: 90-240 VAC, 47-63 Hz, 140W Output: 24 VDC Maximum; power supply also supplies required TEC power. Host Computer Note: Computers and operating systems all undergo frequent revision.
  • Page 31: Attaching A Lens To A C-Mount Adapter

    ProEM+ cameras for imaging applications incorporate an integral C-mount adapter. Other mounts may be available. Consult the factory for specific information relating to your needs. See page 146 for information on accessing the Princeton Instruments Customer Support Dept. Mounting the Lens C-mount lenses simply screw into the front of these cameras.
  • Page 32: Mounting The Adjustable C- To Spectroscopy-Mount Adapter

    Chapter 4 System Setup setscrew securing the adapter. Using a spanner wrench or equivalent (distance between holes is 3.85” [97.8 mm]), rotate the ring to the desired height. Tighten the screw to lock the adapter in place. Note: To lock the setscrew, the face of the adapter should be no further than .1" (2.5 mm) out from the front surface of the camera nose.
  • Page 33: Figure 9. Adjustable C- To Spectroscopy-Mount Adapter

    ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B 6. When you have finished with focusing and rotational alignment, secure the sliding tube in place with the spectrograph setscrews. 7. If they have already been installed, loosen the adapter’s two recessed locking setscrews (use a 0.050 hex key).
  • Page 34: Positioning The Proem+:512Bk Masks

    Chapter 4 System Setup Positioning the ProEM+:512BK Masks The ProEM+:512BK camera has a kinetics nose that provides built-in precision masking capability and manual shutter adjustment. After using the pull-push sliders to coarsely set the position of the top and bottom masks, you can then use the micro-adjust screws while viewing images being acquired by the application software to fine tune the masking.
  • Page 35: Making The Camera-Circulator Connections For A Coolcube

    ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B Making the Camera-Circulator Connections for a CoolCUBE For liquid-cooled cameras, the CoolCUBE circulator provides a vibration-free method of heat removal. 1. Make sure the camera and the circulator power switches are turned off. 2.
  • Page 36: Software Installation

    Chapter 4 System Setup Software Installation WinX Notes: 1. Install the GigE Adapter card BEFORE installing the WinX application software. 2. Leave the interface cable disconnected from the camera until you have installed WinX (Ver. 2.6.10 or later). The following installation is performed via the WinX software installation CD. 1.
  • Page 37: Entering The Default Camera System Parameters

    2. Run the WinX application. The Camera Detection wizard will automatically run if this is the first time you have installed a Princeton Instruments WinX application (WinView/32, WinSpec/32, or WinXTest/32) and a supported camera. Otherwise, if you installing a new camera type, click on the Launch Camera Detection Wizard…...
  • Page 38: Lightfield

    Chapter 4 System Setup 4. Follow the instructions on the dialogs to perform the initial hardware setup: this wizard enters default parameters on the Hardware Setup dialog tabs and gives you an opportunity to acquire a single test image to confirm the system is working. Note that this is a test image and it is not acquired using the settings needed for true data acquisition.
  • Page 39 ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B Note: For a step-by-step procedure on basic system operation, refer to the appropriate "First Light" sections: for Imaging applications (page 48) or for Spectroscopy applications (page 55).
  • Page 40: Chapter 5 Operation

    Chapter 5 Operation Introduction Once the ProEM+ camera has been installed as explained in the preceding chapters, operation of the camera is straightforward. In most applications you simply establish optimum performance using the Focus {Preview} mode (in WinX, for example), set the target camera temperature, wait until the temperature has stabilized, and then do actual data acquisition in the Acquire mode.
  • Page 41: Winx First Light Instructions

    ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B to be stored, data overflow may occur. In WinX, this could only happen in Fast Mode operation. The remainder of this chapter provides "First Light" procedures (these provide step-by- step instruction on how to initially verify system operation) and discusses factors that affect exposure, readout, and digitization of the incoming signal.
  • Page 42: Figure 17. Controller/Camera Tab

    Chapter 5 Operation Setting the Parameters Note: The following procedure is based on WinView/32: you will need to modify it if you are using a different application. Basic familiarity with the WinView/32 software is assumed. If this is not the case, you may want to review the software manual or have it available while performing this procedure.
  • Page 43: Figure 18. Detector Temperature Dialog (512B On Left, 1024B On Right)

    ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B Figure 18. Detector Temperature dialog (512B on left, 1024B on right) Note: The Detector Temperature dialog will not display temperature information while you are acquiring data. Experiment Setup|Main tab (Acquisition|Experiment Setup…):  Exposure Time: 50 ms ...
  • Page 44: Spectroscopy

    Chapter 5 Operation Acquiring Data 1. If you are using WinView/32 and the computer monitor for focusing, select from the Acquisition menu. Successive images will be sent to the Focus monitor as quickly as they are acquired. 2. Adjust the lens aperture, intensity scaling, and focus for the best image as viewed on the computer monitor.
  • Page 45 1. Set the spectrograph entrance slit width to minimum (10 µm if possible). 2. Power ON the spectrograph (i.e., switch the power supply ON). 3. Mount a light source such as a Princeton Instruments Hg and Ne/Ar Dual Switchable light source in front of the entrance slit.
  • Page 46: Figure 20. Controller/Camera Tab

    Chapter 5 Operation Controller/Camera tab (Setup|Hardware): These parameters should be set automatically to the proper values for your system.  Controller type: This information is read from the camera.  Camera type: This information is read from the camera.  Shutter type: Custom (System dependent).
  • Page 47: Figure 22. Experiment Setup|Timing Tab

    ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B Experiment Setup|Main tab (Acquisition|Experiment Setup…):  Exposure Time: 50 ms  Accumulations & Number of Images: 1 Experiment Setup|ROI tab (Acquisition|Experiment Setup…): Use this function to define the region of interest (ROI).  Spectroscopy Mode: Selected ...
  • Page 48 Chapter 5 Operation Confirming the Setup 1. Turn on the light source at the spectrograph entrance slit. 2. In WinSpec, select Focus (on the Acquisition menu or on the Experiment Setup dialog) to begin data accumulation. Depending on the display settings, you should see either a spectral band (image) or a graph.
  • Page 49 After you have aligned the optics the first time, you may want to repeat the process to fine tune the alignment. 1. If you have not already done so, mount a light source such as a Princeton Instruments Hg and Ne/Ar Dual Switchable light source in front of the entrance slit.
  • Page 50 After you have aligned the optics the first time, you may want to repeat the process to fine tune the alignment. 1. Mount an Princeton Instruments light source such as the dual HG/NeAr source in front of the entrance slit of the spectrograph.
  • Page 51 ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B 2. Choose the grating and set the grating to 500 nm if using a mercury lamp or 0.0 nm if using a broadband source. See “Setting the Spectrograph Parameters” on page 46 for information about defining a spectrograph and moving the grating. 3.
  • Page 52: Lightfield First Light Instructions

    Chapter 5 Operation 4. If you have completed data collection, you can leave the camera power on so the array temperature will remain locked or you can shut down the system. Shutdown 1. Close WinX. 2. Turn off the light source and the spectrograph. 3.
  • Page 53: Figure 23. Available Devices Area

    ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B Setting the Parameters Note: The following procedure is based on LightField. Basic familiarity with the LightField software is assumed. If this is not the case, you may want to review the software manual or have it available while performing this procedure. Figure 23.
  • Page 54: Figure 25. View Area

    Chapter 5 Operation 3. Note that the Experiment Settings stack on the left now displays several expanders. Because this is a new experiment, the default settings for the camera will be active. The Status bar (at the bottom of the window) displays icons for temperature status and orientation.
  • Page 55: Figure 26. View Area Displaying An Image

    ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B Figure 26. View Area Displaying an Image 3. Adjust the lens aperture, intensity scaling, and focus for the best image as viewed on the computer monitor. Some imaging tips follow:  Begin with the lens blocked off and then set the lens at the smallest possible aperture (largest f-stop number).
  • Page 56: Spectroscopy

    1. Set the spectrograph entrance slit width to minimum (10 µm if possible). 2. Power ON the spectrograph (i.e., switch the power supply ON). 3. Mount a light source such as a Princeton Instruments Hg and Ne/Ar Dual Switchable light source in front of the entrance slit.
  • Page 57: Figure 27. Available Devices Area

    ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B 5. Power ON the camera (i.e., switch the power supply ON). 6. Turn on the computer power. 7. Start the application software. Setting the Parameters Figure 27. Available Devices Area 1. After LightField opens, you should see icons representing your camera and the spectrograph in the Available Devices area.
  • Page 58 Chapter 5 Operation will be active. The Status bar (at the bottom of the window) displays an icon for temperature status which reports the current temperature and whether the set temperature has been reached. Clicking on the icon opens the Sensor expander where the set temperature can be changed.
  • Page 59: Figure 29. View Area

    1. Click on the View tab, just above Experiment Devices, to change to the display area. 2. If you have not already done so, mount a light source such as a Princeton Instruments Hg and Ne/Ar Dual Switchable light source in front of the entrance slit.
  • Page 60: Figure 30. Spectrometer Alignment: Before Rotational Alignment

    Chapter 5 Operation 4. Verify that the slit is set to 10 µm. If necessary, adjust the Exposure Time to maintain optimum (near full-scale) signal intensity. 5. Wait until the camera temperature locks at its default temperature. 6. Make sure that the spectroscopy-mount adapter moves freely at the spectrograph (you may need to loosen the two set screws that lock the sliding tube in place).
  • Page 61: Figure 31. Spectrometer Alignment: After Rotational Alignment

    ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B Figure 31. Spectrometer Alignment: After Rotational Alignment Note: When aligning other accessories, such as fibers, lenses, optical fiber adapters, first align the spectrograph to the slit. Then align the accessory without disturbing the camera position. The procedure is identical to that used to focus the spectrograph (i.e., do the focus and alignment operations while watching a live image).
  • Page 62 Experiment Devices area. After you have aligned the optics the first time, you may want to repeat the process to fine tune the alignment. 1. Mount a light source such as a Princeton Instruments Hg and Ne/Ar Dual Switchable light source in front of the entrance slit.
  • Page 63: Exposure And Signal

    ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B Acquiring Data 1. After you have achieved focus, you can stop running in Alignment mode. 2. Make any required changes to your experiment setup and software parameters. Changes might include adjusting the exposure time, setting up an entrance slit shutter, changing the timing mode to External Sync, or lowering the temperature.
  • Page 64: Em Gain Calibration

    EM gain ageing while lowering effective dynamic range. For more information, refer to the "On-Chip Multiplication Gain" technical note. This technical note can be accessed by going to the Princeton Instruments web site at www.princetoninstruments.com and searching for that title.
  • Page 65: Ccd Temperature

    ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B 9. Wait until the calibration has been completed (it might take 10 minutes or longer), and then close the dialog before starting the application program. If the camera is a ProEM+:1600, the process may take 30 minutes or longer. CCD Temperature As stated before, lowering the temperature of the CCD will generally enhance the quality of the acquired signal by lowering dark noise.
  • Page 66: Clock Induced Charge (Cic)

    Chapter 5 Operation reference values be above zero. This allows the reference to be above zero so that the variation (read noise) can be measured. When quantifying input light level, the bias value must be subtracted from the real signal frame. In EMCCDs, due to complex nature of the sensor and its drive electronics, the bias can vary frame to frame depending on parameters including but not limited to the temperature, speed, and EM gain.
  • Page 67: Cleaning

    Caution If you observe a sudden change in the baseline signal, there may be excessive humidity in the camera vacuum enclosure. Turn off the camera and contact Princeton Instruments Customer Support. See page 146 for contact information. Cleaning The basic cleaning function is implemented by clean cycles.
  • Page 68: Readout

    Chapter 5 Operation  Clean Before Exposure {Clean Before Exposure} is only provided for cameras that have a Frame Transfer CCD and is only available for selection when in Full Frame mode is active. Normally, cleaning occurs until the acquisition starts. When Clean Before Exposure is active, cleaning occurs up until acquisition starts and the entire CCD will be cleaned once right after the readout occurs.
  • Page 69: Dual-Readout Port Operation

    ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B Figure 33. EMCCD Array Structure WinX and LightField allow you to specify the type of readout (full frame or binned), the output amplifier, and the gain (the number of electrons required to generate an ADU). Dual-Readout Port Operation The ProEM+: 512B/BK, 1024B, 1600 , and 1600...
  • Page 70: Controller Gain {Analog Gain

    Chapter 5 Operation Controller Gain {Analog Gain} Controller Gain {Analog Gain} is software-selectable and is used to change the relationship between the number of electrons acquired on the CCD and the Analog-to- Digital Units (ADUs or counts) generated. Selecting the amount of gain is done on the Acquisition|Experiment Setup…|ADC tab { Analog to Digital Conversion expander}.
  • Page 71: Region Of Interest

    ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B Region of Interest A Region of Interest (ROI) may be the entire CCD array or it may be a rectangular subregion of the array. In WinX, the definition of such a region is done either from the Easy Bin dialog accessed from the Acquisition menu or from the ROI Setup tab, accessible after selecting Experiment Setup from the Acquisition menu.
  • Page 72: Binning

    Chapter 5 Operation Binning Binning (combining pixels into one super pixel) allows you to increase the sensitivity and frame rate. On the other hand, binning reduces spatial resolution. ProEM+ supports flexible vertical binning and binning of 2x-32x in the horizontal. When binning in WinX, keep in mind that the resulting number of super pixels in the horizontal must be evenly divisible by 4.
  • Page 73: Figure 35. Timing Diagram For Frame Transfer Mode When Exposure Time < Readout Time

    ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B minimum effective exposure time in this mode is the readout time). This mode of operation allows you to continuously image a specimen to obtain better kinetic information about a process. In WinX and LightField, Frame Transfer is the default mode of operation for cameras with frame transfer CCDs.
  • Page 74: Figure 36. Timing Diagram For Frame Transfer Mode When Exposure Time > Readout Time

    Chapter 5 Operation Example 2: Frame Transfer Mode when Exposure Time > Readout Time If the exposure time is set to 50 ms with the readout time remaining at 30 ms, the time taken to acquire 3 frames will be 180 ms (3  50 ms + 30 ms), which is equivalent to a frame rate of 16.67 fps.
  • Page 75: Figure 37. Timing Diagram For Full Frame Mode

    ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B Full Frame (Sequential) Mode for Frame-Transfer EMCCD Full Frame mode allows you to expose the array for the exposure time specified in the software and is similar in performance to a normal, full-frame CCD device.
  • Page 76: Readout Time

    Chapter 5 Operation Referring to Figure 37, it can be seen that exposure and readout are carried out in a sequential fashion. As a result, each frame in the sequence is precisely exposed for the time specified (i.e., 10 ms). Full Frame Readout for Full Frame EMCCD The upper left drawing in Figure 38 represents a full frame EMCCD...
  • Page 77 ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B This page intentionally left blank.
  • Page 78: Chapter 6 Advanced Topics

    Chapter 6 Advanced Topics Introduction Previous chapters have discussed setting up the hardware and the software for basic operation. This chapter discusses topics associated with experiment synchronization. Synchronization, is set up on the Experiment Setup|Timing tab in WinX and on the Shutter and Trigger expanders in LightField.
  • Page 79: Frame Transfer/Full Frame Timing {Trigger Response} Modes And Shutter Control {Shutter Mode

    ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B Frame Transfer/Full Frame Timing {Trigger Response} Modes and Shutter Control {Shutter Mode} Overview The basic ProEM+ timing {Trigger Response} modes for Frame Transfer and Full Frame operations are Free Run { No Response }, External Sync { Readout Per Trigger }, Bulb Trigger { Expose During Trigger Pulse } and Trigger Start { Start On Single Trigger }.
  • Page 80: External Sync {Readout Per Trigger

    Chapter 6 Advanced Topics Figure 40. Free Run Timing Diagram External Sync {Readout Per Trigger} In this mode, each frame in a sequence requires a trigger. Each frame is exposed for the length of time entered into the software and is then read out. If a trigger arrives during the exposure-readout of the previous frame, it is ignored (see Figure 41).
  • Page 81: External Sync With Continuous Cleans {Clean Until Trigger} Timing

    ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B External Sync with Continuous Cleans {Clean Until Trigger} Timing Another timing mode available with the ProEM+ is called Continuous Cleans {Clean Until Trigger}. In addition to the standard "cleaning" of the array, which occurs after the camera is enabled, this mode will remove any charge from the array until the moment the External Sync pulse is received.
  • Page 82: Bulb Trigger {Expose During Trigger Pulse} Timing

    Chapter 6 Advanced Topics Figure 43. WinX Continuous Cleans Timing Diagram Figure 44. LightField Clean Until Trigger (CUT) Timing Diagram Bulb Trigger {Expose During Trigger Pulse} Timing When Bulb Trigger {Expose During Trigger Pulse} timing is selected, the camera exposure is set by the External Sync input at the EXT SYNC connector. This allows an external timing generator to control the exposure time of the camera.
  • Page 83: Trigger Start {Start On Single Trigger

    ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B Notes: 1. Kinetics mode-Single trigger is not a valid option for Bulb Trigger mode. 2. “Continuous Clean” is only executed on the first trigger in a sequence. The subsequent triggers will not run the Continuous Clean Programmed pattern. Figure 45.
  • Page 84: Safe Mode (Winx)

    Chapter 6 Advanced Topics drawback is that a data overrun may occur if the number of images collected exceeds the amount of allocated RAM or if the computer cannot keep up with the data rate. Note: LightField always uses Fast Mode. Safe Mode (WinX) In Safe Mode operation, the computer processes each frame as it is received: the ProEM+ cannot collect the next frame until the previous frame has been completely processed.
  • Page 85: Figure 46. Flowcharts Of Safe And Fast Mode Operation

    ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B Figure 46. Flowcharts of Safe and Fast Mode Operation...
  • Page 86: Logic Out Control

    Chapter 6 Advanced Topics LOGIC OUT Control The TTL-compatible logic level output (0 to +3.3 V) from the LOGIC OUT connector on the rear panel can be used to monitor camera status and control external devices. By default, the logic output level is high while the action is occurring. The timing of the level changes depends on the output type selected on the Hardware Setup|Controller/Camera tab {Trigger expander}.
  • Page 87: Kinetics Mode

    ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B When the Invert LOGIC {Invert Output Signal} check box is checked, the output is at a logic low when the action is occurring. Figure 47. Comparison of READ OUT, SHUTTER, and ACQUIRING Logic Out Levels Kinetics Mode Introduction “Kinetics”...
  • Page 88: Kinetics Readout

    Chapter 6 Advanced Topics Kinetics Readout Kinetics readout allows a burst of subframes to be captured with μs resolution. This is accomplished by shifting each subframe exposure under the mask before reading it out. Since there is no overhead of readout time between each exposure, faster time resolution is achieved.
  • Page 89: Figure 51. Kinetics Data Acquired Based On Masked Images Shown In Figure 50

    ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B Figure 51. Kinetics Data acquired based on Masked Images shown in Figure 50. Notes: 1. The timing diagram represents the exposure-readout sequence. Time resolution between subframes is given by t 2. A reduced number of rows in the right image illustrate a way to achieve better time resolution between subframes.
  • Page 90: Kinetics Timing Modes And Shutter Control

    Chapter 6 Advanced Topics Kinetics Timing Modes and Shutter Control For Kinetics, the timing modes are Free Run {No Response}, Single Trigger {Readout Per Trigger}, and Multiple Trigger {Shift Per Trigger}. Free run {No Response} mode is used for experiments that do not require any synchronization with the experiments. The other two modes (single trigger and multiple trigger) require that an external TTL pulse be applied to the camera via the Trigger In connector on the I/O cable.
  • Page 91: Cleaning The Ccd

    ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B Figure 53. Shutter and Trigger expanders Figure 54. Example showing Kinetics Operation using Single Trigger {Readout Per Trigger} Figure 55. Example showing Kinetics Operation using Multiple Trigger {Shift Per Trigger} Cleaning the CCD Since kinetics is most often used in asynchronous, single-shot experiments, it is important that CCD be cleared of accumulating background or dark charge while it is waiting for an external trigger.
  • Page 92: Setting Up A Kinetics Experiment

    Chapter 6 Advanced Topics Setting up a Kinetics Experiment Figure 56. Typical Kinetics Experiment Layout This procedure assumes that: 1. You have already set up your system in accordance with the instructions in the previous chapters. 2. You have read the previous sections of this chapter. 3.
  • Page 93 ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B Detector Temperature (Setup|Detector Temperature…): The default temperature setting is read from the camera. When the array temperature reaches the set temperature, the Detector Temperature dialog will report that the temperature is LOCKED . Experiment Setup|Main tab (Acquisition|Experiment Setup…): ...
  • Page 94: Summary

    Chapter 6 Advanced Topics Shutter expander:  Shutter Mode: Normal Trigger expander:  Trigger Response: No Response, Readout Per Trigger, or Shift Per Trigger Summary Kinetics mode is a powerful feature that allows a burst of subframes to be captured with microsecond time resolution.
  • Page 95: Figure 57. Proem+:512Bk Emccd

    ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B “illuminated” rows — all while delivering the same temporal resolution as standard kinetics. For the fastest possible acquisition, this mode requires that an external mask blocks light from all but a window of rows just below the frame transfer area. During acquisition, the window is exposed and then the rows are shifted into the frame transfer area where they are binned into a single row.
  • Page 96: Summary

    Chapter 6 Advanced Topics Summary Spectra-kinetics is a powerful feature that allows a burst of subframes to be captured with microsecond time resolution. However, careful attention must be paid to the optical and timing considerations, namely  The rows closest to the serial register need to be illuminated. As can be seen in Figure 58, these rows are immediately below the frame transfer area.
  • Page 97: Figure 59. Comparison Of Standard Roi And Custom Chip Readout Rates

    Figure 59. Comparison of Standard ROI and Custom Chip Readout Rates Software Settings Princeton Instruments does not encourage users to change these parameter settings. For most applications, the default settings will give the best results. We strongly advise contacting the factory for guidance before customizing the chip definition.
  • Page 98: Custom Timing

    Chapter 6 Advanced Topics image acquisition speed by reducing the size of the active area in the definition. The result will be faster but lower resolution data acquisition. Operating in this mode would ordinarily require that the chip be masked so that only the reduced active area is exposed.
  • Page 99: Figure 63. Winx: Vertical Shift

    ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B Figure 63. WinX: Vertical Shift...
  • Page 100: Chapter 7 Tips

    1% and sometimes even to 0.5%. All Princeton Instruments cameras, including the ProEM, are designed with a single window made of high-grade fused silica/quartz that acts as a vacuum viewport. Any shipping-protection windows on the EMCCD are removed prior to installing it in the vacuum chamber.
  • Page 101: Reduce Spectral Readout Time By Using The Custom Chip/Timing {Custom Sensor} Feature

    To take full advantage of the outstanding speed offered by Princeton Instruments ProEM+:1600 cameras for spectral data acquisition, users need to utilize the Custom Chip {Custom Sensor} and Custom Timing modes via Princeton Instruments WinX or ®...
  • Page 102: Winx Step-By-Step Procedure

    Chapter 6 Advanced Topics WinX Step-by-Step Procedure The following procedure uses a ProEM+:1600 camera. This same procedure can be used to increase the spectral readout rate for a ProEM+:1600 Note: The Readout Times you get may differ from those reported in this procedure.
  • Page 103 ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B 11. To further reduce the readout time, open the Hardware Setup|Camera/Controller tab, set shutter compensation time(s) to 0 and on the Hardware Setup|Custom Camera tab, select Skip Serial Register Clean . 12. Acquire a spectrum. 13.
  • Page 104: Lightfield High Speed Proem Add-In

    Chapter 6 Advanced Topics LightField High Speed ProEM Add-in Starting with Version 4.2.2, LightField has a High Speed ProEM add-in that will, with the click of a button, change the experiment settings to minimize readout time and maximize the number of frames that can be acquired per second.
  • Page 105: Lightfield Step-By-Step Procedure

    ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B LightField Step-by-Step Procedure The following procedure uses a ProEM+:1600 camera and is meant to give you a sense of how you can reduce readout time and increase the number of frames per second. Keep in mind when using the approaches in this procedure that there is tradeoff between increased spectral readout rate and data quality (increasing the frames per second tends to decrease data quality).
  • Page 106 Chapter 6 Advanced Topics 9. In Custom Sensor flyout pane, set Active Area Height to 208 rows and change the Top and Bottom Margins to 0. The Readout Time is 816 μs and FPS is ~1210. 10. Change the Region of Interest setting to Rows Binned (1600x1) Ctr 208. The Readout Time is 816 μs and FPS is ~1210.
  • Page 107: Figure 66. Lightfield Settings

    ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B Figure 66. LightField Settings Figure 66 shows a screenshot of the relevant settings and results (Readout Time and FPS) at the conclusion of the procedure. Note that Exposure Time (not shown) was 0 ms.
  • Page 108: Chapter 8 Troubleshooting

    Chapter 8 Troubleshooting Do not attach or remove any cables while the camera system is powered on. WARNING! Introduction The following issues have corresponding troubleshooting sections in this chapter. Acquisition Started but Data Display is Empty Page 108 Acquisition Started but Viewer Contents Do Not Update Page 109 Baseline Signal Suddenly Changes Page 109...
  • Page 109: Acquisition Started But Data Display Is Empty

    ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B Acquisition Started but Data Display is Empty If you have started a data acquisition but no data are appearing in the data display, stop the acquisition. Look at the Data Display title bar and verify that the first number in the Region of Interest (ROI) is evenly divisible by 4.
  • Page 110: Acquisition Started But Viewer Contents Do Not Update

    A change in the baseline signal is normal if the temperature, gain, or speed setting has been changed. If this occurs when none of these settings have been changed, there may be excessive humidity in the camera vacuum enclosure. Turn off the camera and contact Princeton Instruments Customer Support. See page 146 for contact information.
  • Page 111: Camera Not Found

    If you are sure the problem is in the camera system hardware, begin with these simple checks:  Turn off all AC power.  Verify that all cables are securely fastened.  Turn the system on. If the system still does not respond, contact Princeton Instruments Customer Support.
  • Page 112: Camera1 (Or Similar Name) In Camera Name Field

    Chapter 8 Troubleshooting Camera1 (or similar name) in Camera Name field Figure 70. Camera1 in Camera Name Field When the Camera Detection Wizard installs a new camera, the camera is automatically named “Camera#” (where # = 1, 2 , or 3.., depending on the number of cameras detected) This name will appear in the Hardware Setup title bar and as the active camera on the Hardware Setup|Controller/Camera tab.
  • Page 113: Cooling Troubleshooting

    ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B Cooling Troubleshooting Temperature Lock Cannot be Achieved or Maintained. Possible causes for not being able to achieve or maintain lock could include:  Ambient temperature greater than +20°C. This condition affects TE-cooled cameras. If ambient is greater than +20°C, you will need to cool the camera environment or raise the set temperature.
  • Page 114: Data Overrun Due To Hardware Conflict Message

    Chapter 8 Troubleshooting Data Overrun Due to Hardware Conflict message Figure 71. Data Overrun Due to Hardware Conflict dialog If this dialog appears when you try to acquire a test image, acquire data, or run in focus mode, check the CCD array size and then check the DMA buffer size. A large array (for example, a 2048x2048 array), requires a larger DMA buffer larger setting than that for a smaller array (for example, a 512x512 array).
  • Page 115: Device Is Occupied

    Ethernet Network is not accessible Device icon When the Princeton Instruments software is installed, all Intel Pro/1000 interface card drivers found on the host computer are updated with the Intel Pro/1000 Grabber Adapter (Vision High-Performance IP Device) driver provided by Pleora Technologies, Inc. If this computer is connected to an Ethernet network via an Intel Pro/1000 card that does not use the Pleora driver, the network connection will be broken.
  • Page 116: For Lightfield

    Chapter 8 Troubleshooting Figure 74. Ebus Driver Installation Tool dialog 4. After making the selection, click on Install. 5. After the installation you may be asked to reboot the computer. If you are asked to reboot, you can  Click on “Yes” to initiate the reboot. ...
  • Page 117: Program Error Message

    ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B  Click on “Yes” to initiate the reboot.  Click on “No” to wait before rebooting. If you select “No,” you may be required to close the eBUS Driver Installation Tool dialog. Reboot the computer at your convenience.
  • Page 118: Serial Violations Have Occurred. Check Interface Cable

    When turning off and on the power supply, wait at least 10 seconds while the power supply is in its off state before switching it back on.  The “TEC Fault” LED will come on if there is problem with the cooling system. Contact Princeton Instruments Customer Service.
  • Page 119: Winx Or Lightfield Crashes When Adding Gige Camera To System

    ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B WinX or LightField Crashes When Adding GigE Camera to System If you have a dual port Intel Pro/1000 Ethernet card and WinX or LightField crashes when trying to add a GigE camera to the system, you will need to modify the default IP address for one of the ports.
  • Page 120: Figure 81. Settings Tab

    Chapter 8 Troubleshooting Figure 81. Settings tab 6. Click on OK . 7. When the System Settings Change dialog appears, click on Yes to restart your computer now or click on No to restart it later. The change will not take place until you restart the computer.
  • Page 121 ® ProEM + System Manual Version 1.B This page intentionally left blank.
  • Page 122: Appendix A Basic Specifications

    Princeton Instruments website (www.princetoninstruments.com). Window UV grade fused-silica (.125”/ 3.18 mm thick). Princeton Instruments offers a choice of multi-layer VIS-AR, UV-AR, and NIR-AR coating options on the vacuum window. For enhanced sensitivity in the UV region, proprietary Unichrome coating of the CCD is available.
  • Page 123: Mounts

    Gig-E: Gigabit Ethernet connector. ® Shutter: LEMO connector provides the shutter drive pulses for driving a Princeton Instruments-supplied 25 mm external shutter in lieu of integrated shutter. Camera power must be OFF before connecting to or disconnecting from t his connector.
  • Page 124: Options

    Appendix A Basic Specifications Ext Sync: 0 to +3.3 V logic level input to allow data acquisition to be synchronized with external events. Trigger edge can be positive- or negative-going as set in software. Synchronization and Timing Modes are discussed in Chapter 6. MCX- to-BNC adapter cable is supplied with system.
  • Page 125 ProEM+ System Manual Version 1.B This page intentionally left blank.
  • Page 126: Appendix B Outline Drawings

    Appendix B Outline Drawings Note: Dimensions are in inches [mm]. ProEM+ Camera: Standard C-mount Figure 83. ProEM+:512B/1024B Outline Drawing...
  • Page 127: Proem+:512Bk - Kinetics

    ProEM+ System Manual Version 1.B ProEM+:512BK - Kinetics Figure 84. ProEM+:512BK Outline Drawing...
  • Page 128: Proem+:1600 And 1600 - Full Frame, Spectroscopy

    Appendix B Outline Drawings – Full Frame, Spectroscopy ProEM+:1600 and 1600 Figure 85. ProEM+:1600 Series Flange-mount Camera Outline Drawing...
  • Page 129: Proem+ Power Supply

    ProEM+ System Manual Version 1.B ProEM+ Power Supply Figure 86. ProEM+ Power Supply Outline Drawing...
  • Page 130: Coolcube Ii (Optional)

    Appendix B Outline Drawings CoolCUBE (optional) Figure 87. CoolCUBE Outline Drawing...
  • Page 131 ProEM+ System Manual Version 1.B This page intentionally left blank.
  • Page 132: Appendix C Mounting The Proem+ To A Spectrograph

    Appendix C Mounting the ProEM+ to a Spectrograph Introduction ProEM+ cameras for imaging are designed with a C-mount adapter to accommodate C-mount lenses. For these cameras, an optional C-mount to spectrometer-mount adapter is available. Other ProEM+ cameras have a flange-mount nose which can be mounted to either an Acton sliding tube or to the camera mounting plate of an IsoPlane spectrograph.
  • Page 133: Acton And Proem+:1600 Series With 3.60" Flange-Mount

    ProEM+ System Manual Version 1.B Acton and ProEM+:1600 Series with 3.60” Flange-Mount Description Screw, 10-32  1/2, Hex Head, Stainless Steel 2826-0120 Assembly Instructions 1. Make sure that the shipping cover has been removed from the exit port on the spectrometer.
  • Page 134: Isoplane And Proem+ With 3.60" Flange Mount

    Appendix C Mounting the ProEM+ to a Spectrograph IsoPlane and ProEM+ with 3.60” Flange Mount Description Screw, 10-32  1/2, Hex Head, Stainless Steel 2826-0120 Assembly Instructions 1. Make sure that the shipping cover has been removed from the detector mounting plate on the IsoPlane.
  • Page 135: Acton And Proem+ With C- To Spectroscopy-Mount Adapter

    ProEM+ System Manual Version 1.B Acton and ProEM+ with C- to Spectroscopy-Mount Adapter Description 8401-071-01 Adapter Plate 8401-071-02 Threaded C-Mount Adapter Screw, 10-32  1/4, Button Head Allen Hex, Stainless Steel 2826-0127 Assembly Instructions 1. Make sure that the shipping cover has been removed from the camera port on the spectrometer.
  • Page 136: Acton And Proem+ With Adjustable C- To Spectroscopy-Mount Adapter (7050-0104 For Sp2350/Sp-2550)

    Appendix C Mounting the ProEM+ to a Spectrograph Acton and ProEM+ with Adjustable C- to Spectroscopy-Mount Adapter (7050-0104 for SP2350/SP-2550) Description Adapter Plate 2518-1284 1.25”-32 Threaded Insert Assembly Instructions 1. Make sure that the shipping cover has been removed from the camera port on the spectrometer.
  • Page 137: Acton And Proem+ With Adjustable C- To Spectroscopy-Mount Adapter (7050-0107 For Sp2150/Sp-2750)

    ProEM+ System Manual Version 1.B Acton and ProEM+ with Adjustable C- to Spectroscopy-Mount Adapter (7050-0107 for SP2150/SP-2750) Description Adapter Plate 2518-1284 1.25”-32 Threaded Insert Assembly Instructions 1. Make sure that the shipping cover has been removed from the camera port on the spectrometer.
  • Page 138: Appendix D Cross-Referencing Of Winx And Lightfield Terms

    Appendix D Cross-Referencing of WinX and LightField Terms WinX-to-LightField WinX LightField Active Rows Parallel to Shift Register Active Height Active Shift Register Columns Active Width ADC Rate Speed ADC Resolution Bit Depth Avalanche Gain EM Gain Avalanche Gain: Experiment Setup|Main tab EM: Analog to Digital Conversion expander Bulb Trigger Expose During Trigger Pulse...
  • Page 139 ProEM+ System Manual Version 1.B WinX LightField Logic Out: Expose (Programmed) Output Signal: Exposing Logic Out: Image Shift Output Signal: Shifting Under Mask Logic Out: Logic 0 Output Signal: Always High (Inverted) Logic Out: Logic 1 Output Signal: Always High Logic Out: Read Out Output Signal: Reading Out Logic Out: Shutter...
  • Page 140: Lightfield-To-Winx

    Appendix D Cross-Referencing of WinX and LightField Terms LightField-to-WinX LightField WinX Active Area: Bottom Margin Post-Dummy Rows Parallel to Shift Register Active Area: Left Margin Pre-Dummy Shift Register Columns Active Area: Right Margin Post-Dummy Shift Register Columns Active Area: Top Margin F.T.
  • Page 141 ProEM+ System Manual Version 1.B LightField WinX Output Signal: Acquiring Logic Out: Acquiring Output Signal: Always High Logic Out: Logic 1 Output Signal: Always High (Inverted) Logic Out: Logic 0 Output Signal: Effectively Exposing Logic Out: Expose (Effective) Output Signal: Exposing Logic Out: Expose (Programmed) Output Signal: Reading Out Logic Out: Read Out...
  • Page 142: Declaration Of Conformity

    Declaration of Conformity This section of the ProEM+ system manual contains the declaration of conformity for ProEM+ systems. A system includes the ProEM+ with a ProEM+ power supply.
  • Page 143 DECLARATION OF CONFORMITY We, the undersigned Manufacturer: Roper Scientific (Princeton Instruments) Address, City: 3660 Quakerbridge Road, Trenton, NJ 08619 Country: USA Authorized Representative in Europe: Roper Scientific, GmbH Address, City: Rosenheimer Landstr. 87, D-85521, Ottobrunn Country: Germany Certify and declare under our sole responsibility that the following apparatus: ProEM+ Camera with Power Supply, Conforms to the emissions requirements of EN61326-1:2006;...
  • Page 144: Warranty & Service

    (1) year after shipment. During this period, Princeton Instruments will repair the product or, at its sole option, repair or replace any defective part without charge to you. You must deliver the entire product to the Princeton Instruments factory or, at our option, to a factory-authorized service center.
  • Page 145: Vacuum Integrity Limited 12 Month Warranty

    / or workmanship under normal use for a period of one (1) year from shipment. Princeton Instruments does not warrant that the function of the software will meet your requirements or that operation will be uninterrupted or error free.
  • Page 146: Your Responsibility

    (1) year limited warranty and/or any other warranty, expressed or implied. 3. All warranty service must be made by the Princeton Instruments factory or, at our option, an authorized service center. 4. Before products or parts can be returned for service you must contact the Princeton Instruments factory and receive a return authorization number (RMA).
  • Page 147: Contact Information

    In no event shall Princeton Instruments' liability exceed the cost of the repair or replacement of the defective product or part.
  • Page 148: Index

    Index Camera, rotation of ..........48, 59 Cautions AC power requirements ........... 28 excessive humidity in CCD chamber ....... 66 Accessories, alignment of ........49, 60 scintillator & UV ............13 Acquisition started, no data shown ......108 CCD array Acquisition started, viewer contents do not update109 blooming ..............
  • Page 149 ProEM+ System Manual Version 1.B Interface card driver installation ............35 Dark charge ............30, 64 Interface card driver installation ......35 definition of..............64 Invert LOGIC check box ......... 86 dynamic range ............66 pattern ................. 64 typical values ............. 64 Dark current .............
  • Page 150 Index ProEM:512BK outline drawing ......126 Spectroscopy mode ..........70 Program Error message ......... 116 Start On Single Trigger ..........82 PVCAM.INI ............111 TEC Fault LED comes on........117 Readout Technical support ..........146 modes Temperature frame transfer ............71 control problems ............
  • Page 151 ProEM+ System Manual Version 1.B Warranties (cont.) software ..............144 Warnings vacuum integrity ............144 cleaning ..............13 XP vacuum chamber ..........143 protective grounding ..........12 x-ray detector ............144 replacement power cord ..........13 your responsibility ........... 145 touching the CCD array ..........
  • Page 152 Contact Princeton Instruments for additional application information and to learn more about our other products. IMAGING GROUP SPECTROSCOPY GROUP INDUSTRIAL GROUP SPECTROSCOPY GROUP X-RAY GROUP ACTON OPTICS & COATINGS www.princetoninstruments.com | info princetoninstruments.com USA TOLL-FREE +1.877.474.2286 | USA +1.609.587.9797...

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Proem+:512bProem+:512bkProem+:1024b

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