UV-Extended Cameras

Vision Research, a division of AMETEK and the manufacturer of Phantom High-Speed Cameras, has introduced high-speed cameras capable of capturing images in the extended light spectrum of UV, visible and Near-IR wavelengths.

The cameras have over 70% Quantum Efficiency (QE) at 300nm, as well as unprecedented QE at other points of the UV light spectrum, allowing researchers to potentially capture images using just the camera and a UV lens. Previously, images in the UV light spectrum were only available with the aid of an image intensifier. The cameras are also capable of capturing images in the visible and near IR spectrums with performance similar to the equivalent Phantom cameras. Depending on lab needs, the cameras can offer a two-in-one benefit.

“We’re excited to bring this UV-extended capability to the scientific community. This community often works in cutting-edge applications that rely on our cameras to provide the best results. As the leader in high-speed imaging, it is incumbent upon us to bring technical advances in our cameras that make a difference and propel their research forward. The UV-extended capability cameras can do just that,” explained Kevin Gann
President of Research and Development at Vision Research.

Phenomena such as some chemical reactions are visible only at certain wavelengths in the UV light spectrum. While high-speed cameras would be advantageous to analyze the very fast reactions, high-speed sensors typically have glass covers that block the UV wavelengths. Similarly, standard lenses are constructed of glass, also blocking UV light. Researchers previously needed to couple an image intensifier to a standard camera to compensate for the glass. Phantom UV cameras overcome this obstacle by implementing a different cover material — fused silica — that allows penetration of UV wavelengths. The cover material is combined with specific Phantom Back Side Illuminated (BSI) sensor designs to provide high QE. Depending on the UV signal generated by the event, an intensifier may no longer be required.

The UV-extended capability is available on the Phantom TMX Series (TMX 7510, 6410 and 5010), the T3610 and T2410, providing a broad performance range to choose from. For more information, visit the Phantom UV Product Page. 

About Vision Research

Vision Research is a leading manufacturer of high-speed digital imaging systems that are indispensable across a wide variety of applications, including defense, automotive, engineering, science, medical research, industrial manufacturing, packaging, and digital cinematography. The Wayne, N.J.-based company designs and manufactures the most comprehensive range of digital high-speed cameras available today, all of which deliver unsurpassed light-sensitivity, image resolution, acquisition speed and image quality.

Over the course of its 60+ year history, Vision Research has earned numerous awards in recognition of its innovations in high-speed digital camera technology and sensor design, including a technical Emmy and an Academy Award®. Vision Research digital high-speed cameras add a new dimension to the sense of sight, allowing the user to see details of an event when it’s too fast to see, and too important not to™.

Vision Research is a business of AMETEK Inc., a leading global provider of industrial technology solutions serving a diverse set of attractive niche markets with annual sales over $6.0 billion.