Roper Scientific, Inc. has announced the release of the Photometrics CascadeO digital imaging system for low-light applications. The new Cascade:650 high-performance CCD camera features signal-boosting "on-chip multiplication gain" technology developed recently by Texas Instruments.

This on-chip capability represents an alternative to traditional image intensifiers for several nongated, low-light applications. The new CCD camera's novel detector uses a low-noise, impact-ionization process to multiply photon-generated charge, making it a superb solution for single-molecule fluorescence (SMF), intracellular ion imaging, and biological fluid flow measurements.

The 16-bit Cascade camera system can be operated at 10 MHz for high-speed image visualization and at 5 MHz for high-precision photometry. Deep thermoelectric cooling and state-of-the-art electronics are utilized to suppress any other sources of noise in the system. The unique frame-transfer CCD features small, square pixels carefully matched to microscope resolution, allowing the capture of fine image details.

Enhanced PVCAM® compatibility lets researchers instantly run the Photometrics Cascade imaging system under numerous third-party programs across all major computer platforms. The PVCAM universal programming interface also facilitates seamless integration with shutters, filter wheels, etc. The camera's C-mount configuration enables the instrument to be easily attached to microscopes, standard lenses, or other optical equipment.