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Products Home1.3 MP CMOS Compact Scientific Cameras
- NIR-Enhanced CMOS Sensor with Low Read Noise for Low-Light Imaging
- Monochrome and Color Versions Also Available
- Global Shutter and 92.3 fps Frame Rate for Imaging Fast Moving Objects
- Compact Housing: 2.77" x 2.38" x 1.88" (70.4 mm x 60.3 mm x 47.6 mm)
Images of an arm taken using a Kiralux NIR-Enhanced 1.3 MP CMOS Camera with a shortpass filter (left) or longpass filter (right). The image on the left shows the arm's surface, while the veins beneath the skin are clearly visible in the NIR image on the right.
CS135MUN
NIR-Enhanced CMOS Camera
Please Wait
| Scientific Camera Selection Guide | ||
|---|---|---|
| Compact Scientific |
Zelux™ (Smallest Profile) |
1.6 MP CMOS |
| Kiralux™ |
1.3 MP CMOS | |
| 2.3 MP CMOS | ||
| 5 MP CMOS | ||
| 5 MP CMOS, Polarization Sensitive |
||
| 8.9 MP CMOS | ||
| Quantalux® (<1 e- Read Noise) |
2.1 MP sCMOS | |
| Scientific CCD |
1.4 MP CCD | |
| 4 MP CCD | ||
| 8 MP CCD | ||
| VGA Resolution CCD (200 Frames Per Second) |
||
Applications
- VIS/NIR Imaging
- Electrophysiology/Brain Slice Imaging
- Materials Inspection
- Multispectral Imaging
- Ophthalmology/Retinal Imaging
- Vascular Imaging
- Laser Speckle Imaging
- Semiconductor Inspection
- Fluorescence Microscopy
- Brightfield Microscopy
 Jason Mills General Manager, Thorlabs Scientific Imaging |
Feedback?  |
Features
- NIR-Enhanced, Monochrome, or Color
- CMOS 1280 x 1024 Pixel (1.3 Megapixel) Sensor
- Global Shutter
- Frame Rate: 92.3 fps
- Fan-Free, Passive Thermal Management Reduces Dark Current
without Adding Vibration and Image Blur - <7.0 e- RMS Read Noise
- Triggered and Bulb Exposure Modes
- USB 3.0 Interface
- ThorCam™ Software for Windows® 7 and 10 Operating Systems
- SDK and Programming Interface Support:
- C, C++, C#, Python, and Visual Basic .NET APIs
- LabVIEW and MATLAB Third-Party Software
- SM1-Threaded (1.035"-40) Aperture with Adapter for Standard C-Mount (1.000"-32)
- Compatible with 30 mm Cage System
Thorlabs' Kiralux™ 1.3 MP Camera with an NIR-Enhanced CMOS Sensor features low, <7.0 e- RMS read noise, making it ideal for low-light imaging applications. Versions with monochrome or color sensors are also available. The compact housing, measuring just 2.77" x 2.38" x 1.88" (70.4 mm x 60.3 mm x 47.6 mm), has been engineered to provide passive thermal management for the sensor, reducing dark current without the need for a cooling fan or thermoelectric cooler. Each CMOS camera has a global shutter, which captures the entire field of view simultaneously, and a fast 92.3 fps frame rate, allowing for imaging of fast moving objects.
The approximate position of the sensor is indicated by the engraved line on top of the camera body. Each camera includes a USB 3.0 interface for compatibility with most computers and can be operated using our ThorCam software. Developers can leverage our fully featured API and SDK. See the Software tab for more information and to download the software package.
Each camera's aperture has SM1 (1.035"-40) threading for compatibility with Ø1" Lens Tubes; an adjustable C-Mount (1.000"-32) adapter is factory installed for out-of-the-box compatibility with many microscopes, machine vision camera lenses, and C-Mount extension tubes. The monochrome and NIR-enhanced cameras come with AR-coated clear windows, while the color camera comes with an IR blocking filter. Each optic can be removed and replaced with another Ø25 mm or Ø1" optic up to 1.27 mm thick when using the camera's C-mount adapter. Without this adapter, the maximum filter thickness is 4.4 mm.
Four 4-40 tapped holes provide compatibility with our 30 mm cage system. Two 1/4"-20 tapped holes on opposite sides of the housing are compatible with imperial Ø1" pedestal or pillar posts. The combination of flexible mounting options and compact size makes these CMOS cameras the ideal choice for integrating into custom-built imaging systems as well as those based on commercial microscopes.
Camera Mounting Features |
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 Click to Enlarge Removing the C-Mount adapter and locking ring exposes the SM1 (1.035"-40) threading that can be used for custom assemblies using standard Thorlabs components. |
 Click to Enlarge An SM1 Lens Tube installed using the SM1-threaded aperture. |
 Click to Enlarge Four 4-40 tapped holes allow 30 mm Cage System components to be attached to the camera. Pictured is our CP13 Cage Plate with C-Mount threading. |
 Click to Enlarge A compact scientific CMOS camera installed on a Cerna® microscope using the WFA4100 Camera Tube. |
|
| Item #a | CS135MUN | CS135CU | CS135MU |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sensor Type | NIR-Enhanced CMOS | Color CMOS | Monochrome CMOS |
| Effective Number of Pixels (Horizontal x Vertical) |
1280 x 1024 | ||
| Imaging Area (Horizontal x Vertical) | 6.067 mm x 4.838 mm | ||
| Pixel Size | 4.8 µm x 4.8 µm | ||
| Optical Format | 1/2" (7.76 mm Diagonal) | ||
| Max Frame Rate | 92.3 fps (Full Sensor) | ||
| ADCb Resolution | 10 Bits | ||
| Sensor Shutter Type | Global | ||
| Peak Quantum Efficiency | 60% at 600 nm | N/A (See Graph Below) |
59% at 550 nm |
| Read Noise | <7.0 e- RMS | ||
| Full Well Capacity | ≥10 000 e- | ||
| Exposure Time | 0.100 ms to 59269 ms in 0.001 ms Increments | ||
| Pixel Clock Speed | 36 MHz | ||
| Vertical and Horizontal Hardware Binning |
1 x 1 to 5 x 5c | ||
| Region of Interest (ROI) | 16 x 2 Pixelsd to 1280 x 1024 Pixels, Rectangular | ||
| Dynamic Range | >60 dB | ||
| Lens Mount | C-Mount (1.000"-32) | ||
| Mounting Features | Two 1/4"-20 Taps for Post Mounting 30 mm Cage Compatible |
||
| Removable Optic | Window, Ravg < 0.5% per Surface (650 - 1050 nm) |
IR Blocking Filter (See Graph Below) |
Window, Ravg < 0.5% per Surface (400 - 700 nm) |
| Dimensions | 2.77" x 2.38" x 1.88" (70.4 mm x 60.3 mm x 47.6 mm) |
||
| USB Power Consumption | 3.15 W @ 92.3 fps (Full Sensor ROI) | ||
| Ambient Operating Temperature | 10 °C to 40 °C (Non-Condensing) | ||
| Storage Temperature | 0 °C to 55 °C | ||
| Example Frame Rates at 0.1 ms Exposure Timea,b | |
|---|---|
| Region of Interest | Frame Rate |
| Full Sensor (1280 x 1024) | 92.3 fps |
| Half Sensor (640 x 512) | 309.7 fps |
| 1/10 Sensor (128 x 102) | 2303 fps |
| Minimum ROI (16 x 2) | 4747 fps |
Click to Enlarge
Mechanical Drawing of the Kiralux® Camera Housing
Click to Enlarge
Click for Raw Data
This curve shows the quantum efficiency for the monochrome camera sensor.
Click to Enlarge
Click for Raw Data
These curves show the relative response for the color camera sensor's red, green, and blue pixels. This data does not take into account absorption from the installed IR blocking filter. The shaded blue region above 650 nm represents wavelengths blocked by the filter, which is removable.
Click to Enlarge
Click for Raw Data
The curve shows the typical transmission through the IR blocking filter. The filter can be removed and replaced with another Ø25 mm or Ø1" optic up to 1.27 mm thick when using the camera's C-mount adapter. Without this adapter, the maximum filter thickness is 4.4 mm. Instructions for this are provided in the manual.
Camera Back Panel Connector Locations
For the I/O connector pin assignments, please see the Auxiliary (I/O) Connector section below.
TSI-IOBOB and TSI-IOBOB2 Break-Out Board Connector Locations
Click to Enlarge
TSI-IOBOB
Click to Enlarge
TSI-IOBOB2
| TSI-IOBOB and TSI-IOBOB2 Connector | 8050-CAB1 Connectors | Camera Auxiliary (I/O) Port |
|---|---|---|
 Female 6-Pin Mini Din Female Connector |
 Male 6-Pin Mini Din Male Connector (TSI-IOBOB end of Cable)  Male 12-Pin Hirose Connector (Camera end of Cable) |
 Female 12-Pin Hirose Connector (Auxiliary Port on Camera) |
Auxiliary (I/O) Connector
The camera and the break-out boards feature female connectors; the camera has a 12-pin Hirose connector, while the break out boards have a 6-pin Mini-DIN connector. The 8050-CAB1 cable features male connectors on both ends: a 12-pin connector for connecting to the camera and a 6-pin Mini-DIN connector for the break-out boards. Pins 1, 2, 3, 5, and 6 are each connected to the center pin of an SMA connector on the break-out boards, while pin 4 (ground) is connected to each SMA connector housing. To access one of the I/O functions not available with the 8050-CAB1, the user must fabricate a cable using shielded cabling in order for the camera to adhere to CE and FCC compliance; additional details are provided in the camera manual.
| Camera I/O Pin # |
TSI-IOBOB and TSI-IOBOB2 Pin # |
Signal | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | - | GND | The electrical ground for the camera signals. |
| 2 | - | GND | The electrical ground for the camera signals. |
| 3 | - | GND | The electrical ground for the camera signals. |
| 4 | 6 | STROBE_OUT (Output) |
An LVTTL output that is high during the actual sensor exposure time when in continuous, overlapped exposure mode. It is typically used to synchronize an external flash lamp or other device with the camera. |
| 5 | 3 | TRIGGER_IN (Input) |
An LVTTL input used to trigger exposures. Transitions can occur from the high to low state or from the low to high state as selected in ThorCam; the default is low to high. |
| 6 | 1 | LVAL_OUT (Output) |
Refers to "Line Valid." It is an active-high LVTTL signal and is asserted during the valid pixel period on each line. It returns low during the inter-line period between each line and during the inter-frame period between each frame. |
| 7 | - | OPTO I/O_OUT STROBE (Output) |
This is an optically isolated output signal. The user must provide a pull-up resistor to an external voltage source of 2.5 V to 20 V. The pull-up resistor must limit the current into this pin to <40 mA. The default signal present on pin 7 is the STROBE_OUT signal, which is effectively the Trigger Out signal as well. |
| 8 | - | OPTO I/O_RTN | This is the return connection for the OPTO I/O_OUT output and the OPTO I/O_IN input connections. This must be connected to the pull-up source for OPTO I/O_OUT or the driving source for the OPTO I/O_IN signals. |
| 9 | - | OPTO I/O_IN (Input) |
This is an optically isolated input signal used to trigger exposures. The user must provide a driving source from 3.3 V to 10 V. An internal series resistor limits the current to <50 mA at 10 V. |
| 10 | 4 | GND | The electrical ground for the camera signals. |
| 11 | - | GND | The electrical ground for the camera signals. |
| 12 | 5 | FVAL_OUT (Output) |
Refers to "Frame Valid." It is a LVTTL output that is high during active readout lines and returns low between frames. |
Click to Enlarge
Scientific Camera with Included Accessories
The following accessories are included with each Compact Scientific Camera:
- USB 3.0 Cable (Micro B to A)
- Wrench to Loosen Optical Assembly (Item # SPW502)
- Lens Mount Dust Cap
- Quick-Start Guide
- Manual Download Information Card
ThorCam™
ThorCam is a powerful image acquisition software package that is designed for use with our cameras on 32- and 64-bit Windows® 7 or 10 systems. This intuitive, easy-to-use graphical interface provides camera control as well as the ability to acquire and play back images. Single image capture and image sequences are supported. Please refer to the screenshots below for an overview of the software's basic functionality.
Application programming interfaces (APIs) and a software development kit (SDK) are included for the development of custom applications by OEMs and developers. The SDK provides easy integration with a wide variety of programming languages, such as C, C++, C#, Python, and Visual Basic .NET. Support for third-party software packages, such as LabVIEW, MATLAB, and µManager* is available. We also offer example Arduino code for integration with our TSI-IOBOB2 Interconnect Break-Out Board.
*µManager control of Zelux and 1.3 MP Kiralux cameras is not currently supported. When controlling the Kiralux Polarization-Sensitive Camera using µManager, only intensity images can be taken; the ThorCam software is required to produce images with polarization information.
| Recommended System Requirementsa | |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Windows® 7 or 10 (64 Bit) |
| Processor (CPU)b | ≥3.0 GHz Intel Core (i5 or Higher) |
| Memory (RAM) | ≥8 GB |
| Hard Drivec | ≥500 GB (SATA) Solid State Drive (SSD) |
| Graphics Cardd | Dedicated Adapter with ≥256 MB RAM |
| Motherboard | USB 3.0 (-USB) Cameras: Integrated Intel USB 3.0 Controller or One Unused PCIe x1 Slot (for Item # USB3-PCIE) GigE (-GE) Cameras: One Unused PCIe x1 Slot |
| Connectivity | USB or Internet Connectivity for Driver Installation |
Software
Version 3.4.0
Click the button below to visit the ThorCam software page.
Example Arduino Code for TSI-IOBOB2 Board
Click the button below to visit the download page for the sample Arduino programs for the TSI-IOBOB2 Shield for Arduino. Three sample programs are offered:
- Trigger the Camera at a Rate of 1 Hz
- Trigger the Camera at the Fastest Possible Rate
- Use the Direct AVR Port Mappings from the Arduino to Monitor Camera State and Trigger Acquisition
Click the Highlighted Regions to Explore ThorCam Features
Camera Control and Image Acquisition
Camera Control and Image Acquisition functions are carried out through the icons along the top of the window, highlighted in orange in the image above. Camera parameters may be set in the popup window that appears upon clicking on the Tools icon. The Snapshot button allows a single image to be acquired using the current camera settings.
The Start and Stop capture buttons begin image capture according to the camera settings, including triggered imaging.
Timed Series and Review of Image Series
The Timed Series control, shown in Figure 1, allows time-lapse images to be recorded. Simply set the total number of images and the time delay in between captures. The output will be saved in a multi-page TIFF file in order to preserve the high-precision, unaltered image data. Controls within ThorCam allow the user to play the sequence of images or step through them frame by frame.
Measurement and Annotation
As shown in the yellow highlighted regions in the image above, ThorCam has a number of built-in annotation and measurement functions to help analyze images after they have been acquired. Lines, rectangles, circles, and freehand shapes can be drawn on the image. Text can be entered to annotate marked locations. A measurement mode allows the user to determine the distance between points of interest.
The features in the red, green, and blue highlighted regions of the image above can be used to display information about both live and captured images.
ThorCam also features a tally counter that allows the user to mark points of interest in the image and tally the number of points marked (see Figure 2). A crosshair target that is locked to the center of the image can be enabled to provide a point of reference.
Third-Party Applications and Support
ThorCam is bundled with support for third-party software packages such as LabVIEW, MATLAB, and .NET. Both 32- and 64-bit versions of LabVIEW and MATLAB are supported. A full-featured and well-documented API, included with our cameras, makes it convenient to develop fully customized applications in an efficient manner, while also providing the ability to migrate through our product line without having to rewrite an application.
Click to Enlarge
Figure 1: A timed series of 10 images taken at 1 second intervals is saved as a multipage TIFF.
Click to Enlarge
Figure 2: A screenshot of the ThorCam software showing some of the analysis and annotation features. The Tally function was used to mark four locations in the image. A blue crosshair target is enabled and locked to the center of the image to provide a point of reference.
Performance Considerations
Please note that system performance limitations can lead to "dropped frames" when image sequences are saved to the disk. The ability of the host system to keep up with the camera's output data stream is dependent on multiple aspects of the host system. Note that the use of a USB hub may impact performance. A dedicated connection to the PC is preferred. USB 2.0 connections are not supported.
First, it is important to distinguish between the frame rate of the camera and the ability of the host computer to keep up with the task of displaying images or streaming to the disk without dropping frames. The frame rate of the camera is a function of exposure and readout (e.g. clock, ROI) parameters. Based on the acquisition parameters chosen by the user, the camera timing emulates a digital counter that will generate a certain number of frames per second. When displaying images, this data is handled by the graphics system of the computer; when saving images and movies, this data is streamed to disk. If the hard drive is not fast enough, this will result in dropped frames.
One solution to this problem is to ensure that a solid state drive (SSD) is used. This usually resolves the issue if the other specifications of the PC are sufficient. Note that the write speed of the SSD must be sufficient to handle the data throughput.
Larger format images at higher frame rates sometimes require additional speed. In these cases users can consider implementing a RAID0 configuration using multiple SSDs or setting up a RAM drive. While the latter option limits the storage space to the RAM on the PC, this is the fastest option available. ImDisk is one example of a free RAM disk software package. It is important to note that RAM drives use volatile memory. Hence it is critical to ensure that the data is moved from the RAM drive to a physical hard drive before restarting or shutting down the computer to avoid data loss.
Triggered Operation
Our Kiralux™ 1.3 MP CMOS Compact Scientific Cameras have three externally triggered operating modes: streaming overlapped exposure, asynchronous triggered acquisition, and bulb exposure driven by an externally generated trigger pulse. The trigger modes operate independently of the readout (e.g., binning) settings as well as gain and offset. Figures 1 through 3 show the timing diagrams for these trigger modes, assuming an active low external TTL trigger.
Click to Enlarge
Figure 1: Streaming overlapped exposure mode. When the external trigger goes low, the exposure begins, and continues for the software-selected exposure time, followed by the readout. This sequence then repeats at the set time interval. Subsequent external triggers are ignored until the camera operation is halted. For the definition of the TTL signals, please see the Pin Diagrams tab.
Click to Enlarge
Figure 2: Asynchronous triggered acquisition mode. When the external trigger signal goes low, an exposure begins for the preset time, and then the exposure is read out of the camera. During the readout time, the external trigger is ignored. Once a single readout is complete, the camera will begin the next exposure only when the external trigger signal goes low.
Click to Enlarge
Figure 3: Bulb exposure mode. The exposure begins when the external trigger signal goes low and ends when the external trigger signal goes high. Trigger signals during camera readout are ignored.
Figure 4: The ThorCam Camera Settings window. The red and blue highlighted regions indicate the trigger settings as described in the text.
Camera Specific Timing Considerations
Due to the general operation of the Kiralux™ 1.3 MP camera sensors, as well as typical system propagation delays, the timing relationships shown above are subject to the following considerations:
- The delay from the external trigger to the start of the exposure and strobe signals is typically 3.5 µs for all triggered modes (standard and PDX/Bulb).
- For PDX/Bulb mode triggered exposures, in addition to the 3.5 µs delay at the start of the exposure, there is also a fixed exposure time error of 28 µs AFTER the falling edge of the external trigger. This is inherent in the sensor operation. It is important to note that the Strobe_Out signal includes the additional 28 µs integration time and therefore is a better representation of the actual exposure time. Our suggestion is to use the Strobe_Out signal to measure your exposure time and adjust your PDX mode trigger pulse accordingly.
External Triggering
External triggering enables these cameras to be easily integrated into systems that require the camera to be synchronized to external events. The Strobe Output goes high to indicate exposure; the strobe signal may be used in designing a system to synchronize external devices to the camera exposure. External triggering requires a connection to the auxiliary port of the camera. We offer the 8050-CAB1 auxiliary cable as an optional accessory. Two options are provided to "break out" individual signals. The TSI-IOBOB provides SMA connectors for each individual signal. Alternately, the TSI-IOBOB2 also provides the SMA connectors with the added functionality of a shield for Arduino boards that allows control of other peripheral equipment. More details on these three optional accessories are provided below.
Trigger settings are adjusted using the ThorCam software. Figure 4 shows the Camera Settings window, with the trigger settings highlighted with red and blue squares. Settings can be adjusted as follows:
- "Hardware Trigger" (Red Highlight) Set to "None": The camera will simply acquire the number of frames in the "Frames per Trigger" box when the capture button is pressed in ThorCam.
- "Hardware Trigger" Set to "Standard": There are Two Possible Scenarios:
- "Frames per Trigger" (Blue Highlight) Set to Zero or >1: The camera will operate in streaming overlapped exposure mode (Figure 1).
- "Frames per Trigger" Set to 1: Then the camera will operate in asynchronous triggered acquisition mode (Figure 2).
- "Hardware Trigger" Set to "Bulb (PDX) Mode": The camera will operate in bulb exposure mode, also known as Pulse Driven Exposure (PDX) mode (Figure 3).
In addition, the polarity of the trigger can be set to "On High" (exposure begins on the rising edge) or "On Low" (exposure begins on the falling edge) in the "Hardware Trigger Polarity" box (highlighted in red in Figure 4).
Click to Enlarge
Figure 5: A schematic showing a system using the TSI-IOBOB2 to facilitate system integration and control.
Example Triggering Configuration using Scientific Camera Accessories
As an example of how camera triggering can be integrated into system control is shown in Figure 5. In the schematic, the camera is connected to the TSI-IOBOB2 break-out board / shield for Arduino using a 8050-CAB1 cable. The pins on the shield can be used to deliver signals to simultaneously control other peripheral devices, such as light sources, shutters, or motion control devices. Once the control program is written to the Arduino board, the USB connection to the host PC can be removed, allowing for a stand-alone system control platform; alternately, the USB connection can be left in place to allow for two-way communication between the Arduino and the PC. Configuring the external trigger mode is done using ThorCam as described above.
About Thorlabs Scientific Imaging
Thorlabs Scientific Imaging (TSI) is a multi-disciplinary team dedicated to solving the most challenging imaging problems. We design and manufacture low-noise, high performance scientific cameras, interface devices, and software at our facility in Austin, Texas.
A Message from TSI's General Manager
As a researcher, you are accustomed to solving difficult problems but may be frustrated by the inadequacy of the available instrumentation and tools. The product development team at Thorlabs Scientific Imaging is continually looking for new challenges to push the boundaries of Scientific Cameras using various sensor technologies. We welcome your input in order to leverage our team of senior research and development engineers to help meet your advanced imaging needs.
Thorlabs' purpose is to support advances in research through our product offerings. Your input will help us steer the direction of our scientific camera product line to support these advances. If you have a challenging application that requires a more advanced scientific camera than is currently available, I would be excited to hear from you.
Sincerely,
Jason Mills
General Manager
Thorlabs Scientific Imaging
| Posted Comments: | |
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Click to Enlarge
Camera Housings of Our Compact Scientifc and Scientific CCD Cameras
Camera Selection Overview
- Versions Available:
- Zelux™ CMOS 1.6 MP Monochrome or Color Sensor
- Models Available With or Without External Trigger Inputs
- Kiralux™ CMOS Sensors:
- 1.3 MP, 2.3 MP, 5 MP, or 8.9 MP
- Monochrome, Color, NIR Enhanced, or Polarization Sensitive
- Quantalux® sCMOS 2.1 MP Monochrome Sensor
- Scientific CCD:
- Fast Frame Rate VGA, 1.4 MP, 4 MP, or 8 MP
- Monochrome or Color Sensor
- 8 MP Monochrome CCD Model with Sensor Face Plate Removed
- Zelux™ CMOS 1.6 MP Monochrome or Color Sensor
- High Quantum Efficiency
- Low Read Noise
- Software-Selectable Pixel Clock Speed
- Region-of-Interest (ROI) and Binning Modes
- 32- and 64-Bit Windows® 7 or 10 Support
- Asynchronous, Triggered, and Bulb Exposure Modes
- SDK and Programming Interface Support:
- C, C++, C#, Python, and Visual Basic .NET APIs
- LabVIEW, MATLAB, and µManager* Third-Party Software
Thorlabs offers four families of scientific cameras: Zelux™, Kiralux™, Quantalux®, and Scientific CCD. Zelux cameras are designed for general-purpose imaging and provide high imaging performance while maintaining a small footprint. Kiralux cameras have CMOS sensors in compact, passively cooled housings and are available with monochrome, color, NIR-enhanced, or polarization-sensitive sensors. The polarization-sensitive Kiralux camera incorporates an integrated micropolarizer array that, when used with our ThorCam™ software package, captures images that illustrate degree of linear polarization, azimuth, and intensity at the pixel level. Our Quantalux monochrome sCMOS camera features high dynamic range combined with extremely low read noise for low light applications; it is housed in the same compact, passively cooled housing as our Kiralux cameras. Scientific CCD cameras are available with a variety of features, including versions optimized for operation at UV, visible, or NIR wavelengths; fast-frame-rate cameras; TE-cooled or non-cooled housings; and versions with the sensor face plate removed. The tables below provide a summary of our camera offerings.
*µManager control of Zelux and 1.3 MP Kiralux cameras is not currently supported. When controlling the Kiralux Polarization-Sensitive Camera using µManager, only intensity images can be taken; the ThorCam software is required to produce images with polarization information.
| Compact Scientific Cameras | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Camera Type | Zelux™ | Kiralux™ | Quantalux® | |||
| 1.6 MP CMOS | 1.3 MP CMOS | 2.3 MP CMOS | 5 MP CMOS | 8.9 MP CMOS | 2.1 MP sCMOS | |
| Item # | Monochrome: CS165MUa Color: CS165CUa |
NIR Enhanced: CS135MUN Monochrome: CS135MU Color: CS135CU |
Monochrome: CS235MU Color: CS235CU |
Monochrome: CS505MU Color: CS505CU Polarization: CS505MUP |
Monochrome: CS895MU Color: CS895CU |
Monochrome: CS2100M-USB |
| Product Photos (Click to Enlarge) |
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| Electronic Shutter | Global Shutter | Global Shutter | Rolling Shutterb | |||
| Sensor Type | CMOS | CMOS | sCMOS | |||
| Number of Pixels (H x V) |
1440 x 1080 | 1280 x 1024 | 1920 x 1200 | 2448 x 2048 | 4096 x 2160 | 1920 x 1080 |
| Pixel Size | 3.45 µm x 3.45 µm | 4.8 µm x 4.8 µm | 5.86 µm x 5.86 µm | 3.45 µm x 3.45 µm | 5.04 µm x 5.04 µm | |
| Optical Format | 1/2.9" (6.2 mm Diagonal) |
1/2" (7.76 mm Diagonal) |
1/1.2" (13.4 mm Diagonal) |
2/3" (11 mm Diagonal) |
1" (16 mm Diagonal) |
2/3" (11 mm Diagonal) |
| Peak Quantum Efficiency (Click for Plot) |
Monochrome: 69% at 575 nm Color: Click for Plot |
NIR: 60% at 600 nm Monochrome: 59% at 550 nm Color: Click for Plot |
Monochrome: 78% (at 500 nm) Color: Click for Plot |
Monochrome & Polarization: 72% (Over 525 to 580 nm) Color: Click for Plot |
Monochrome: 72% (Over 525 to 580 nm) Color: Click for Plot |
Monochrome: 61% (at 600 nm) |
| Max Frame Rate (Full Sensor) |
34.8 fps | 92.3 fps | 39.7 fps | 35 fps | 20.8 fps | 50 fps |
| Read Noise | <4.0 e- RMS | <7.0 e- RMS | <7.0 e- RMS | <2.5 e- RMS | <1 e- Median, <1.5 e- RMS |
|
| Digital Output (Max) | 10 Bit | 10 Bit | 12 Bit | 16 Bit | ||
| PC Interface | USB 3.0 | |||||
| Housing Dimensions (Click for Details) |
0.59" x 1.72" x 1.86" (15.0 mm x 43.7 mm x 47.2 mm) |
2.77" x 2.38" x 1.88" (70.4 mm x 60.3 mm x 47.6 mm) |
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| Typical Applications | General Purpose Imaging Brightfield Microscopy Machine Vision & Robotics UAV, Drone, & Handheld Imaging Inspection Monitoring |
VIS/NIR Imaging Electrophysiology/Brain Slice Imaging Materials Inspection Multispectral Imaging Ophthalmology/Retinal Imaging Vascular Imaging Laser Speckle Imaging Semiconductor Inspection Fluorescence Microscopy Brightfield Microscopy |
Fluorescence Microscopy Immunohistochemistry (IHC) Machine Vision Inspection General Purpose Imaging |
Monochrome & Color: Fluorescence Microscopy Immunohistochemistry (IHC) Machine Vision & Inspection Polarization: Machine Vision & Inspection Transparent Material Detection Surface Reflection Reduction |
Fluorescence Microscopy Immunohistochemistry (IHC) Large FOV Slide Imaging Machine Vision Inspection |
Fluorescence Microscopy VIS/NIR Imaging Quantum Dots Autofluorescence Materials Inspection Multispectral Imaging |
| Scientific CCD Cameras | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Camera Type | Fast Frame Rate VGA CCD | 1.4 MP CCD | 4 MP CCD | 8 MP CCD | |||
| Item # Prefix | Monochrome: 340M |
UV-Enhanced Monochrome: 340UV |
Monochrome: 1501M Color: 1501C |
Monochrome: 4070M Color: 4070C |
Monochrome: 8051M Color: 8051C |
Monochrome, No Sensor Face Plate: S805MU |
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| Product Photo (Click to Enlarge) |
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| Electronic Shutter | Global Shutter | ||||||
| Sensor Type | CCD | ||||||
| Number of Pixels (H x V) |
640 x 480 | 1392 x 1040 | 2048 x 2048 | 3296 x 2472 | |||
| Pixel Size | 7.4 µm x 7.4 µm | 6.45 µm x 6.45 µm | 7.4 µm x 7.4 µm | 5.5 µm x 5.5 µm | |||
| Optical Format | 1/3" (5.92 mm Diagonal) | 2/3" (11 mm Diagonal) | 4/3" (21.4 mm Diagonal) | 4/3" (22 mm Diagonal) | |||
| Peak QE (Click for Plot) |
55% (at 500 nm) |
10% (at 485 nm) |
Monochrome: 60% (at 500 nm) Color: Click for Plot |
Monochrome: 52% (at 500 nm) Color: Click for Plot |
Monochrome: 51% (at 460 nm) Color: Click for Plot |
51% (at 460 nm) | |
| Max Frame Rate (Full Sensor) |
200.7 fps (at 40 MHz Dual-Tap Readout) |
23 fps (at 40 MHz Single-Tap Readout) |
25.8 fps (at 40 MHz Quad-Tap Readout)a |
17.1 fps (at 40 MHz Quad-Tap Readout)b |
17.1 fps (at 40 MHz Quad-Tap Readout) |
||
| Read Noise | <15 e- at 20 MHz | <7 e- at 20 MHz (Standard Models) <6 e- at 20 MHz (-TE Models) |
<12 e- at 20 MHz | <10 e- at 20 MHz | |||
| Digital Output (Max) | 14 Bitc | 14 Bit | 14 Bitc | 14 Bit | |||
| Available Fanless Cooling | Passive Thermal Management | -20 °C at 20 °C Ambient Temperature | -10 °C at 20 °C Ambient | Passive Thermal Management | |||
| Available PC Interfaces | USB 3.0 or Gigabit Ethernet | USB 3.0 | |||||
| Housing Dimensions (Click for Details) |
Non-Cooled Scientific CCD Camera |
Cooled Scientific CCD Camera Non-Cooled Scientific CCD Camera |
No Face Plate Scientific CCD Camera |
||||
| Typical Applications | Ca++ Ion Imaging Particle Tracking Flow Cytometry SEM/EBSD UV Inspection |
Fluorescence Microscopy VIS/NIR Imaging Quantum Dots Multispectral Imaging Immunohistochemistry (IHC) Retinal Imaging |
Fluorescence Microscopy Transmitted Light Micrsoscopy Whole-Slide Microscopy Electron Microscopy (TEM/SEM) Inspection Material Sciences |
Fluorescence Microscopy Whole-Slide Microscopy Large FOV Slide Imaging Histopathology Inspection Multispectral Imaging Immunohistochemistry (IHC) |
Beam Profiling & Characterization Interferometry VCSEL Inspection Quantitative Phase-Contrast Microscopy Ptychography Digital Holographic Microscopy |
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Zoom| Kiralux 1.3 Megapixel Camera Comparisona | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Item # | Sensor Type | Peak Quantum Efficiencyb | Removeable Optic |
| C135MUN | NIR-Enhanced CMOS | 60% at 600 nm | AR-Coated Window, Ravg < 0.5% per Surface (650 - 1050 nm) |
| C135MU | Monochrome CMOS | 59% at 550 nm | AR-Coated Window, Ravg < 0.5% per Surface (400 - 700 nm) |
| C135CU | Color CMOS | N/A (Click for Plot) | IR Blocking Filterb |
Zoom
Click for Details
A schematic showing a TSI-IOBOB2 connected to an Arduino to trigger a compact scientific camera.
These optional accessories allow for easy use of the auxiliary port of our compact scientific (sCMOS & CMOS) or scientific CCD cameras. These items should be considered when it is necessary to externally trigger the camera, to monitor camera performance with an oscilloscope, or for simultaneous control of the camera with other instruments.
For our USB 3.0 cameras, we also offer a PCIe USB 3.0 card and extra cables for facilitating the connection to the computer.
Auxiliary I/O Cable (8050-CAB1)
The 8050-CAB1 is a 10' (3 m) long cable that mates with the auxiliary connector on our scientific cameras* and provides the ability to externally trigger the camera as well as monitor status output signals. One end of the cable features a male 12-pin connector for connecting to the camera, while the other end has a male 6-pin Mini Din connector for connecting to external devices. This cable is ideal for use with our interconnect break-out boards described below. For information on the pin layout, please see the Pin Diagrams tab above.
*The 8050-CAB1 cable is not compatible with our former-generation 1500M series cameras.
Interconnect Break-Out Board (TSI-IOBOB)
The TSI-IOBOB is designed to "break out" the 6-pin Mini Din connector found on our scientific camera auxiliary cables into five SMA connectors. The SMA connectors can then be connected using SMA cables to other devices to provide a trigger input to the camera or to monitor camera performance. The pin configurations are listed on the Pin Diagrams tab above.
Interconnect Break-Out Board / Shield for Arduino (TSI-IOBOB2)
The TSI-IOBOB2 offers the same breakout functionality of the camera signals as the TSI-IOBOB. Additionally, it functions as a shield for Arduino, by placing the TSI-IOBOB2 shield on a Arduino board supporting the Arduino Uno Rev. 3 form factor. While the camera inputs and outputs are 5 V TTL, the TSI-IOBOB2 features bi-directional logic level converters to enable compatibility with Arduino boards operating on either 5 V or 3.3 V logic. Sample programs for controlling the scientific camera are available for download from our software page, and are also described in the manual (found by clicking on the red Docs icon below). For more information on Arduino, or for information on purchasing an Arduino board, please see www.arduino.cc.
The image to the right shows a schematic of a configuration with the TSI-IOBOB2 with an Arduino board integrated into a camera imaging system. The camera is connected to the break-out board using a 8050-CAB1 cable that must be purchased separately. The pins on the shield can be used to deliver signals to simultaneously control other peripheral devices, such as light sources, shutters, or motion control devices. Once the control program is written to the Arduino board, the USB connection to the host PC can be removed, allowing for a stand-alone system control platform; alternately, the USB connection can be left in place to allow for two-way communication between the Arduino and the PC. The compact size of 2.70" x 2.10" (68.6 mm x 53.3 mm) also aids in keeping systems based on the TSI-IOBOB2 compact.
USB 3.0 Camera Accessories (USB3-MBA-118 and USB3-PCIE)
We also offer a USB 3.0 A to Micro B cable for connecting our cameras to a PC (please note that one cable is included with each USB 3.0 camera). The cable measures 118" long and features screws on either side of the Micro B connector that mate with tapped holes on the camera for securing the USB cable to the camera housing. When operating USB 3.0 cameras it is strongly recommended that the Thorlabs-supplied USB 3.0 cable be used, with the retention screws securely fastened. Due to the high data rates involved, users may experience problems when using generic USB 3.0 cables.
Cameras with USB 3.0 connectivity may be connected directly to the USB 3.0 port on a laptop or desktop computer. USB 3.0 cameras are not compatible with USB 2.0 ports. Host-side USB 3.0 ports are often blue in color, although they may also be black in color, and typically marked "SS" for SuperSpeed. A USB 3.0 PCIe card is sold separately for computers without an integrated Intel USB 3.0 controller. Note that the use of a USB hub may impact performance. A dedicated connection to the PC is preferred.
1.3 MP CMOS Compact Scientific Cameras
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