Specifications

Version 1.1 rev Jan 2013
Page 25
iXon Ultra
Introduction to iXon Ultra Hardware
1.7.10 - Minimizing particulate contamination
It is important that particulate contamination of the exterior of the camera window is kept to a minimum, such that
images are kept free of ‘shadowing’ particles directly in the optical path. The iXon Ultra range comes equipped with an
internal C-mount shutter. Whilst not being required for frame transfer operation (which is a shutter-free readout mode)
it is good practice to close the shutter when the camera is not in acquisition use for a reasonable period. It is also
advisable to use the software to close the shutter when exposing the camera to the ‘open environment’ (i.e. removed
from a microscope C-mount or focusing lens) whilst power is still owing to the camera.
When SOLIS is exited the shutter (if tted) will close automatically. We recommend that the C-mount opening is covered
when the camera is not in use.
If there is evidence of particulate contamination on the front window it is possible to clean the window by blowing oil
free dry air gently over the window surface. However, the shutter has to be kept open for this procedure, which means
that the camera has to be powered up. Therefore, since light can access the EMCCD sensor during this time, we
recommend that EM Gain is turned off (readily selectable through the software).