Thorlabs CS505 series 5 MP compact CMOS cameras

Thorlabs has added the CS505 series 5 MP CMOS cameras to its line of compact scientific cameras. Combining a high pixel count (2448 x 2048) and a peak quantum efficiency of 79% at 600 nm with less than 2.5 e^- of RMS read noise, the series is suitable for scientific imaging applications.

The cameras are available with either a monochrome or colour sensor and can generate full-frame 5 MP readout at 35 fps with 12-bit resolution. Measuring just 2.38″ (at its widest point) x 2.78″, the compact camera housing has been engineered to provide passive thermal management for the sensor, reducing dark current without the need for a cooling fan or thermoelectric cooler.

The compact scientific cameras integrate a comprehensive software suite that includes ThorCam (a Windows GUI) as well as support for third-party applications such as ImageJ/Micromanager, LabVIEW, MatLab and a developer-friendly SDK. A USB 3.0 interface provides compatibility with most computers.

The small form factor of the compact scientific series is feature rich, enabling seamless integration into a multitude of set-ups. An adjustable C-Mount adapter is factory installed into the SM1-threaded optical aperture of the camera for out-of-the-box compatibility with industry-standard microscopes and camera lenses. Various mounting taps are also provided for optical post and 30 mm cage system compatibility.

The 6:5 aspect ratio and 3.45 μm pixel size make the 5 MP cameras suitable for a wide variety of microscope imaging techniques, from quantitative low-light fluorescence microscopy to transmitted-light imaging. Suggested applications include fluorescence and brightfield microscopy, machine vision and materials inspection.

Originally published here.