User manual

Rolera Thunder Users Manual 1

Chapter 1

Overview

Introduction

The QImaging® Rolera Thunder camera employs an advanced CCD technology called "impact

ionization" to achieve charge multiplication gain above the read noise. As a result, the cameras

offer unparalleled sensitivity even at high frame rates.

Rolera Thunder cameras are most suited for high speed and/or low-light level imaging

applications such as single molecule fluorescence, ion imaging, and adaptive optics. With the

traditional readout amplifier, the Rolera Thunder can also be used for standard fluorescence and

imaging applications requiring higher dynamic range.

Currently the Rolera Thunder line consists of the following camera model:

• Rolera Thunder

o Uses a 512x512 Back-illuminated CCD with 16x16 µm pixels.

o Has two readout amplifiers – one that offers charge multiplication gain and

another for traditional readout.

Technology

Introduction

The principal difference between a charge-multiplying CCD and a traditional CCD is the presence

of an extended serial register in the new device (see Figure 1). Electrons are accelerated from

pixel to pixel in the extended portion of the serial register (also referred to as a multiplication

be generated in the silicon by impact ionization. The degree of multiplication gain is controlled

by increasing or decreasing clock voltages for this register (gain is exponentially proportional to

the voltage). Although the probability of generating secondary electrons is fairly low (typically

0.01 per stage), over the large number of stages of a typical multiplication register, the total gain

can be quite high.

This technology combines the ease of use and robustness of a traditional CCD with the gain

capabilities of an intensified CCD in a single device. The combination of this technology with

frame-transfer readout makes the Rolera Thunder cameras excellent choices for experiments

where fast framing and low light sensitivity are required.