Teledyne Princeton Instruments PI-MAX 3 User Manual

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www.princetoninstruments.com

PI-MAX

3 System Manual

4411-0129

Issue 2

August 20, 2019

Default Chapter3
- Table of Contents3
- Alarm13
- Attention13
- Unigen™ II Coating14
Chapter 1 About this Manual15
- Intended Audience15
- Related Documentation15
- Table 1-1: Related Documentation15
- Document Organization16
- Conventions Used in this Document17
- Table 1-2: Terminology Conventions Used17
- PI-MAX3 Safety Information18
- Safety Related Symbols Used in this Manual18
- Audible Alarm19
- Intensifier Modes and Safety19
- High Intensity Light Damage20
- Precautions20
Chapter 2 PI-MAX3 Camera System21
- Figure 2-2: Typical PI-MAX3 Camera22
- Mount Adapters22
- PI-MAX3 Camera22
- Cooling23
- Extender Bracket Kit23
- Gige Ethernet Card23
- Figure 2-3: PI-MAX3 Rear-Panel Connectors24
- PI-MAX3 Rear-Panel Connectors and Indicators24
- Table 2-1: PI-MAX3 Rear-Panel Connectors and Indicators25
- Power26
- Figure 2-4: PI-MAX3 Power Supply Connectors and Indicators27
- Table 2-2: PI-MAX3 Power Supply Connectors and Indicators27
- Application Software28
- Cables29
- Optional Accessories29
- Table 2-3: Standard PI-MAX3 Camera System Cables29
- Camera30
- Cleaning Optical Surfaces: Protective Window30
- Cleaning Optical Surfaces: Unigen™II Coating30
- Coolcube II Coolant Circulator30
- PI-MAX3 Camera and System Maintenance30
- Spectrograph30
- Flushing and Refilling the CCD Chamber31
- Repairs31
Chapter 3 PI-MAX3 Image Acquisition33
- Image Acquisition Process34
Chapter 4 Installation Overview35
- Table 4-1: PI-MAX3 Installation Actions35
- Figure 4-1: Block Diagram: PI-MAX337
- System Block Diagrams37
- Pi-Max38
Chapter 5 System Setup39
- Unpack the System39
- Examine Equipment and Verify Parts Inventory40
- Imaging Applications41
- Mount the PI-MAX341
- Install Application Software42
- Install Winx/3242
- Spectroscopy Applications42
- Figure 5-1: Typical Winview/32 Setup Dialog: Select Installation Type43
- Figure 5-2: Typical Lightfield Installation Wizard Dialog44
- Install Lightfield44
- Connect PI-MAX3 to Coolcube II45
- Figure 5-3: Typical Coolcube II Coolant Circulator45
- Configure Default System Parameters46
- Connect PI-MAX3 to Dry Nitrogen Source46
- Winx/32 Applications (Version 2.5.25.X and Higher)46
- Figure 5-4: Typical Camera Detection Wizard - Welcome Dialog47
- Lightfield Applications48
Chapter 6 First Light49
- Required Equipment49
- Winx/32 First Light49
- Procedure50
- Figure 6-2: Typical Winx/32 Supersynchro52
- Figure 6-3: Typical Winx/32 Supersynchro52
- Figure 6-4: Typical Winx/32 Repetitive Gating Setup Dialog53
- Figure 6-5: Typical Winx/32 Experiment Setup Main Tab Dialog54
- Figure 6-6: Typical Winx/32 Experiment Setup ADC Tab Dialog54
- Figure 6-7: Typical Winx/32 Experiment Setup55
- Figure 6-8: Typical Winx/32 First Light Acquired Image56
- Figure 6-9: Typical Winx/32 First Light Acquired Image, Reversed/Flipped56
- Lightfield First Light58
- Procedure58
- Required Equipment58
- Figure 6-10: Typical Lightfield Available Devices Area59
- Figure 6-11: Typical Lightfield Experiment Devices Area with PI-MAX360
- Figure 6-12: Typical Lightfield Online Corrections Orientation Indicator61
- Figure 6-13: Typical Lightfield Experiment Workspace61
- Figure 6-14: Typical Lightfield View Tab with Image62
Chapter 7 Operation63
- Dark Charge64
- Pre-Exposure Removal of Accumulated Charge64
- Winx/32 System On/Off Sequences64
- Cleaning65
- Figure 7-2: Timing Diagram: Internal Trigger Mode, Clean Cycles65
- Phosphor Decay Delay67
- Cooling Method68
- Figure 7-3: Typical Winx/32 Hardware Setup Dialog: Phosphor Decay Delay68
- Figure 7-4: Typical Lightfield Common Acquisition Settings Advanced68
- Temperature Control68
- Air-Cooling69
- Supplemental Circulating Coolant69
- Exposure70
- Exposure with an Image Intensifier70
- Setting the Temperature70
- Background Subtraction71
- Saturation71
- Readout of the Array72
- Figure 7-5: Typical Interline CCD Readout73
- Interline CCD Readout73
- Figure 7-6: Non-Overlapped Mode Exposure and Readout74
- Non-Overlapped Mode Exposure and Readout74
- Interline Readout Rate75
- Full Frame CCD Readout76
- Table 7-1: Readout Rates: Kodak 1024 X 1024 Array, 16 Mhz Dual Port Mode76
- Binned Readout (Hardware Binning)78
- Table 7-2: Readout Rates: E2V CCD30-11 1024 × 256 Array at 2 Mhz78
- CCD Type and Readout Port(S)79
- Figure 7-8: Dual Port Readout: 2 X 2 Binning, Interline CCD79
- Figure 7-10: Single Port Readout: 2 X 2 Binning, Full Frame CCD80
- Figure 7-9: Typical Lightfield ROI Expander: Dual Port Readout, 2 X80
- Figure 7-11: Typical Winx/32 Experiment Setup ROI Setup Tab Dialog81
- Figure 7-12: Lightfield: Edit Regions of Interest Dialog82
- Figure 7-13: Single Port Readout: 2 X 2 Binning, Partial Frame, Interline CCD83
- Figure 7-14: Lightfield Region of Interest Expander: Dual Port Readout84
- Software Binning85
- Controller Gain {Analog Gain86
- Digitization86
- Figure 7-15: Typical Winx/32 Hardware Setup87
- Figure 7-16: Timing Diagram: Logic out Control, Key Control Signals87
- Logic out Control87
- Experiment Setup ► Main Tab89
- Figure 7-17: Typical Winx/32 Experiment Setup Main Tab Dialog89
- Winx/32 Experiment Setup89
- Experiment Setup ► Timing Tab90
- Figure 7-18: Typical Winx/32 Experiment Setup Timing Tab Dialog90
- Figure 7-19: Flowcharts: Fast Mode Versus Safe Mode92
- Common Acquisition Settings Expander93
- Figure 7-20: Typical Lightfield Common Acquisitions Settings Expander93
- Lightfield Experiment Setup93
- Figure 7-21: Typical Lightfield Region of Interest Expander94
- Region of Interest Expander94
- Figure 7-22: Typical Lightfield Trigger Expander: Internal Trigger Source95
- Figure 7-23: Typical Lightfield Trigger Expander: External Trigger Source95
- Trigger Expander95
- Figure 7-24: Typical Lightfield Supersynchro Timing Expander96
- Supersynchro Expander96
- Figure 2-1: Typical PI-MAX3 System Components21
- Figure 3-1: Primary Components of an Intensifier-CCD33
- Data Acquisition Sequence63
- Figure 7-1: Block Diagram: Signal Path in Standard PI-MAX3 System63
Chapter 8: Winx/32 and Gated Operation97
- Precautionary Measures98
- Intensifier Modes and Safety98
- Alarm99
- Timing Mode99
- MCP Bracket Pulsing100
- Figure 8-1: Timing: Bracket Pulsing100
- Bracket Pulsing in LIF Measurements101
- Bracket Pulsing in Nanosecond Pump Probe Experiments101
- Limitations of Bracket Pulse Gating102
- Impact of Bracket Pulsing on Delay102
- Setup103
- Figure 8-2: Timing Diagram: PI-MAX3 MCP Bracket Pulsing103
- Additional Experiments104
- Figure 8-3: Typical PI-MAX3 Experiments104
- Swept Gate Experiment [Fixed Width; Variable Delay]105
- Experiment Is Master Clock105
- Figure 8-4: Block Diagram: Swept Gate Experiment105
- Figure 8-5: Timing Diagram: Swept Gate Experiment106
- Figure 8-6: Typical Hardware Setup: Controller/Camera Tab106
- Figure 8-7: Typical Define Spectrograph Dialog107
- Figure 8-8: Typical Install/Remove Spectrographs Dialog108
- Figure 8-9: Typical Define Spectrograph Dialog: Main Tab [Acton Sp300I]108
- Figure 8-10: Typical Move Spectrograph Dialog109
- Figure 8-11: Typical Experiment Setup Dialog: Main Tab109
- Figure 8-12: Typical Experiment Setup Dialog: Timing Tab110
- Figure 8-13: Typical Experiment Setup Dialog: ADC Tab110
- Figure 8-14: Typical Experiment Setup Dialog: ROI Setup Tab111
- Figure 8-15: Typical Supersynchro Dialog: Trigger in Tab111
- Figure 8-16: Typical Supersynchro Dialog: Trigger in Tab112
- Figure 8-17: Typical Supersynchro Dialog: Gating Tab113
- Figure 8-18: Typical Sequential Gating Setup Dialog113
- Figure 8-19: Typical Width/Delay Sequence Dialog114
- Figure 8-20: Typical Supersynchro Dialog: Trigger out Tab115
- Figure 8-21: Typical Experiment Setup Dialog: Timing Tab116
- Figure 8-22: Typical Experiment Setup Dialog: Main Tab117
- Syncmaster1 as Master Clock118
- Figure 8-23: Typical 3D Experiment Results118
- Figure 8-24: Block Diagram: PI-MAX3 Syncmaster1 as Master Clock118
- Swept Gate Experiment [Variable Width, Variable Delay]119
- Figure 8-25: Timing Diagram: PI-MAX3 Syncmaster1 as Master Clock119
- Static Gate Experiment [Fixed Width, Fixed Delay]120
- Single Shot Experiment120
- Figure 8-26: Typical Repetitive Gating Setup Dialog120
- Table 8-2: Sample Single Shot Experiment Time Budget120
- Figure 8-27: Block Diagram: Single Shot121
- Figure 8-28: Typical Cleans and Skips Default Values121
- Figure 8-29: Typical Experiment Setup Dialog: Main Tab, Gain Configuration122
- Figure 8-30: Repetitive Gating Setup: 100 Ns Width, 10 Ns Delay122
- Figure 8-31: Single Shot Result: Fluorescence Spot, 100 Ns Width123
- Figure 8-32: Single Shot Result: Fluorescence Spot, 100 Ns Width123
Chapter 9: Lightfield and Gated Operation125
- Precautionary Measures126
- Intensifier Modes and Safety126
- Alarm127
- Timing Mode127
- MCP Bracket Pulsing128
- Figure 9-1: Timing: Bracket Pulsing128
- Bracket Pulsing in LIF Measurements129
- Bracket Pulsing in Nanosecond Pump Probe Experiments129
- Limitations of Bracket Pulse Gating130
- Impact of Bracket Pulsing on Delay130
- Setup131
- Figure 9-2: Timing Diagram: PI-MAX3 MCP Bracket Pulsing131
- Additional Experiments132
- Figure 9-3: Typical PI-MAX3 Experiments132
- Swept Gate Experiment [Fixed Width; Variable Delay]133
- Experiment Is Master Clock133
- Figure 9-4: Block Diagram: Swept Gate Experiment133
- Figure 9-5: Timing Diagram: Swept Gate Experiment134
- Figure 9-6: Typical Sensor Cleaning Fly-Out Panel134
- Figure 9-7: Typical Spectrometer Expanders135
- Figure 9-8: Typical Region of Interest Expander: Full Sensor Selected136
- Figure 9-9: Typical Common Acquisition Settings Expander136
- Figure 9-10: Typical Analog to Digital Conversion Expander137
- Figure 9-11: Typical Trigger Expander: Internal Trigger Source Selected137
- Figure 9-12: Typical Region of Interest Expander: Full Sensor Binned138
- Figure 9-13: Typical Trigger Expander: External Trigger Source138
- Figure 9-14: Typical Supersynchro Timing Expander139
- Figure 9-15: Typical Supersynchro Timing with Syncmaster on140
- Syncmaster1 as Master Clock141
- Figure 9-16: Typical Experiment Results with Frame Cross-Section Active141
- Figure 9-17: Block Diagram: PI-MAX3 Syncmaster1 as Master Clock141
- Swept Gate Experiment [Variable Width, Variable Delay]142
- Figure 9-18: Timing Diagram: PI-MAX3 Syncmaster1 as Master Clock142
- Static Gate Experiment [Fixed Width, Fixed Delay]143
- Single Shot Experiment143
- Figure 9-19: Typical Supersynchro Timing Expander: Repetitive Gating143
- Table 9-2: Sample Single Shot Experiment Time Budget143
- Figure 9-20: Block Diagram: Single Shot144
- Figure 9-21: Typical Cleans and Skips Default Values144
- Figure 9-22: Typical Common Acquisition Settings Expander: Configure145
- Figure 9-23: Repetitive Gating Setup: 100 Ns Width, 25 Ns Delay145
- Figure 9-24: Single Shot Result: Fluorescence Spot, 100 Ns Width146
- Figure 9-25: Single Shot Result: Fluorescence Spot, 100 Ns Width146
Chapter 10: Timing Generator Pulses and Sequences147
- Pulse Set147
- Figure 10-1: Typical Pulse Set147
- Supported Timing Generator Trigger Modes148
- Single Sequence148
- Figure 10-2: Timing Diagram: Trigger Per Pulse148
- Figure 10-3: Single Sequence with Three Repetitions148
- Supported Timing Generator Trigger Modes149
- Time Stamping149
- Figure 10-4: Timing Diagram: Sequence with 3 Repetitions and149
- Pi-Max150
Chapter 11: Winx/32 and Dual Image Feature (DIF)151
- Requirements151
- Interline CCD Operation151
- Timing Modes152
- Configure a Single Trigger DIF Experiment152
- Figure 11-1: Typical System Block Diagram: DIF Operation152
- Figure 11-2: Timing Diagram: DIF Operation, Single Trigger152
- Figure 11-3: Typical Hardware Setup Controller/Camera Tab153
- Figure 11-4: Typical Experiment Setup154
- Figure 11-5: Typical Experiment Setup154
- Figure 11-6: Typical Pulsers Dialog155
- Figure 11-7: Typical Supersynchro Dialog155
- Figure 11-8: Typical DIF Gating Setup Dialog156
- Figure 11-9: Typical Supersynchro Dialog: Trigger in Tab156
- Figure 11-10:Typical Supersynchro Dialog: Trigger out Tab157
- Configure a Dual Trigger DIF Experiment158
- Figure 11-11: Typical System Block Diagram: DIF Operation158
- Figure 11-12:Timing Diagram: DIF Operation, Dual Trigger158
- Figure 11-13: Typical Hardware Setup Controller/Camera Tab159
- Figure 11-14:Typical Experiment Setup160
- Figure 11-15: Typical Experiment Setup160
- Figure 11-16:Typical Pulsers Dialog161
- Figure 11-17:Typical Supersynchro Dialog161
- Figure 11-18:Typical DIF Gating Setup Dialog: Dual Trigger162
- Figure 11-19:Typical Supersynchro Dialog: Trigger in Tab162
- Figure 11-20:Typical Supersynchro Dialog: Trigger out Tab163
- Tips and Tricks164
Chapter 12: Lightfield and Dual Image Feature (DIF)165
- Requirements165
- Figure 12-1: Typical Readout Expander165
- Interline CCD Operation166
- Figure 12-2: Typical Common Acquisition Settings Expander166
- Trigger Configuration167
- Figure 12-3: Typical Trigger Expander167
- Configure a Single Trigger DIF Experiment168
- Figure 12-4: Typical Supersynchro Timing Expander: DIF168
- Figure 12-5: Typical System Block Diagram: DIF Operation168
- Figure 12-6: Timing Diagram: DIF Operation, Single Trigger169
- Configure a Dual Trigger DIF Experiment171
- Figure 12-7: Typical System Block Diagram: DIF Operation171
- Figure 12-8: Timing Diagram: DIF Operation, Dual Trigger171
- Tips and Tricks173
Chapter 13: MCP Gating175
- Setup and Operation175
- Gain Variation175
- Fluorescence Experiment175
- Hardware Configuration for MCP Gated Operation176
- Figure 13-1: Hardware Block Diagram: MCP Gated Operation176
- Figure 13-2: Timing Diagram: MCP Gated Operation177
Chapter 14: Picosecond Option179
- Activating Picosecond Operation179
- Gain and Gate Width179
- MONITOR Operation180
- Repetition Rate Issues180
- Timing180
- Table 14-1: Typical PI-MAX3: 1024I Picosecond Operation Data: Sustained180
- Methods for Finding a Short Optical Pulse181
- Example181
Chapter 15: Tips and Tricks183
- Overexposure Protection183
- Signal Delay183
- Time Budgets184
- Measuring Coincidence184
- Adjusting the Signal Delay185
- Optimizing the Gate Width and Delay186
- Lasers186
- Free Running Lasers186
- Triggered Lasers187
- Jitter187
- Inhibiting the Pulser During Readout187
- Lens Performance188
- Throughput188
- Depth of Field188
- Baseline Signal189
- Temperature Lock189
- Intensifier Alarm189
Chapter 16: Troubleshooting191
- Table 16-1: List of Recommended Troubleshooting Procedures191
- Alarm Sounds Repetitively192
- Alarm Sounds Sporadically192
- Baseline Signal Suddenly Changes by > 1000 ADU192
- Camera Is Not Responding192
- Camera Stops Working193
- Cooling Troubleshooting193
- Temperature Lock Cannot be Achieved or Maintained193
- Gradual Deterioration of Cooling Capability194
- Data Loss or Serial Violation194
- Error Occurs at Computer Power up194
- Ethernet Network Is Not Accessible194
- Winx/32 Applications194
- Lightfield Applications195
- Figure 16-1: Typical Winx/32 Ebus Driver Installation Tool Dialog195
- Figure 16-2: Typical Lightfield Ebus Driver Installation Tool Dialog195
- Excessive Readout Noise196
Appendix A: Technical Specifications197
- Camera Specifications197
- Table A-1: CCD Specifications197
- Figure A-1: Typical Phosphor Emission Spectra199
- AUX I/O Connector Pinout201
- Figure A-2: Typical AUX I/O Cable201
- Table A-2: AUX I/O Cable Leads201
- Figure A-3: AUX I/O Connector Pinout202
- Table A-3: AUX I/O Connector Pinout and Signal Description202
- Power Requirements204
- Environmental Requirements204
- Ventilation205
- Internal Pulser205
- Intensifier Quantum Efficiency206
- Figure A-4: QE Curve: Gen II Intensifier206
- Figure A-5: QE Curve: Gen III Filmless Intensifier206
- Coolcube II Circulator207
- Minimum Host Computer Requirements208
Appendix B: Outline Drawings209
- Pi-Max3209
- Figure B-1: Outline Drawing: PI-MAX3 with C-Mount Adapter209
- Figure B-2: Outline Drawing: PI-MAX3 with F-Mount Adapter210
- Figure B-3: Outline Drawing: PI-MAX3 with Spectroscopy-Mount Adapter211
- PI-MAX3 Power Supply212
- Figure B-4: Outline Drawing: PI-MAX3 Power Supply212
- Coolcube II Circulator213
- Figure B-5: Outline Drawing: Coolcube II Circulator213
Appendix C: Winspec/32 and Lightfield Cross References215
- Winspec/32-To-Lightfield Terminology215
- Table C-1: Winspec/32-To-Lightfield Cross Reference215
- Lightfield to Winspec/32217
- Table C-2: Lightfield-To-Winspec/32 Cross Reference217
Appendix D: Extender Bracket Kit219
- Figure D-1: Extender Bracket Kit Mounted to PI-MAX3219
Appendix E: Mounting and Focusing C- and F-Mount Lenses221
- Lens Mounting221
- Figure E-1: F-Mount (Nikon) Lens Adapter221
- Mounting Orientation222
- Len Focusing222
Appendix F: C-, F-, and Spectroscopy-Mount Adapters223
- Accessory Kits223
- PI-MAX3 18 MM Tube223
- PI-MAX3 25 MM Tube223
- Figure F-1: Screwdriver with Reversible Flat and Phillips Tips223
- Adapter Kits224
- PI-MAX3 to Teledyne Acton Research Spectrograph Quick Start Guides224
- Standard C-, F-, and Spectroscopy-Mount Adapters224
- Table F-1: Adapter Kit Information224
- Spectroscopy-Mount for NVUV Cameras225
- Figure F-2: PI-MAX3 Mount Adapters225
- Figure F-3: O-Ring Positions for PI-MAX3 NVUV Cameras225
- Optical Distance from Mounting Face to Image Plane226
Appendix G: Spectrograph Adapters227
- Spectrograph-Detector Focus227
- Teledyne Acton Research Series Spectrograph227
- Isoplane SCT-320 Spectrograph229
- PI-MAX3 (3.60" 3-Hole Slotted Flange) to Teledyne Acton Research231
- Series Spectrograph231
- Required Tools231
- Procedure231
- PI-MAX3 to Teledyne Acton Research (C-Mount Adapter)233
- Figure G-2: PI-MAX3 to Teledyne Acton Research with C-Mount Adapter233
- Table G-1: Required Hardware: PI-MAX3 to Teledyne Acton Research with C-Mount233
- PI-MAX3 to Isoplane SCT-320235
- Figure G-3: PI-MAX3 to Isoplane SCT-320235
- Table G-2: Required Hardware: PI-MAX3 to Isoplane SCT-320235
Appendix H: Glossary237
- Warranty and Service245
- Limited Warranty245
- Basic Limited One (1) Year Warranty245
- Limited One (1) Year Warranty on Refurbished or Discontinued Products245
- XP Vacuum Chamber Limited Lifetime Warranty245
- Sealed Chamber Integrity Limited 12 Month Warranty246
- Vacuum Integrity Limited 12 Month Warranty246
- Image Intensifier Detector Limited One Year Warranty246
- X-Ray Detector Limited One Year Warranty246
- Software Limited Warranty246
- Owner's Manual and Troubleshooting247
- Your Responsibility247
- Contact Information248

Questions and Answers:

M
maddensaraAug 1, 2025
What to do if Teledyne Digital Camera alarm sounds repetitively?
- T
  toddmollyAug 1, 2025
  If the Teledyne Digital Camera alarm sounds repetitively, immediately reduce the light entering the camera by switching the I.I.T. switch on the back of the PI-MAX3 to OFF until you lower the source illumination. You can decrease the lens aperture or completely block the light into the camera window with a lens cap until the light level has been lowered. If the alarm continues even when the illumination level is low, switch the I.I.T. to OFF, turn off the PI-MAX3 power supply, and then contact the factory.

Teledyne Princeton Instruments PI-MAX 3 Specifications

General

Brand	Teledyne
Model	Princeton Instruments PI-MAX 3
Category	Digital Camera
Language	English

Summary

Revision History

Attention and Safety Warnings

General Safety Warnings

Provides crucial safety warnings regarding potential damage to intensified detectors from light exposure.

Audible Alarm System

Details the PI-MAX3's audible alarm for light overload and safety procedures.

Unigen™ II Coating

Chapter 1: About this Manual

Intended Audience for PI-MAX3 Manual

Identifies the target users and personnel responsible for PI-MAX3 system operation.

Document Organization Overview

Details the structure and content of the PI-MAX3 system manual chapters and appendices.

Document Conventions Used

Explains terminology conventions and cross-references between WinX/32 and LightField software.

Safety Symbols and Information

Explains safety symbols and provides essential PI-MAX3 safety information.

Intensifier Modes and Safety Precautions

Discusses safety for Gate Mode and Safe Mode, and audible alarm procedures.

High Intensity Light Damage and General Precautions

Details risks of light damage and provides essential precautions for system operation.

Chapter 2: PI-MAX3 Camera System

PI-MAX3 Camera Overview

Introduces the PI-MAX3 camera, its operating modes, electronics, and data transfer capabilities.

PI-MAX3 Camera Mount Adapters

Describes the C-mount, F-mount, and Spectroscopy-mount adapters for the PI-MAX3 camera.

Camera Cooling System

Explains the PI-MAX3 cooling system using a fan and Peltier cooler, and optional liquid cooling.

GigE Ethernet Card and Extender Bracket Kit

Details the GigE card for data transfer and the extender bracket for mounting.

PI-MAX3 Rear-Panel Connectors and Indicators

Illustrates and describes the rear-panel connectors and indicators on the PI-MAX3 camera.

PI-MAX3 Power Supply Connectors and Indicators

Describes the connectors and indicators on the PI-MAX3 power supply unit.

Application Software for PI-MAX3

Lists and describes data acquisition software packages like LightField® and PICam™.

Optional PI-MAX3 Accessories and Cables

Provides information on optional accessories and standard PI-MAX3 camera system cables.

PI-MAX3 Camera and System Maintenance

Covers maintenance for the camera, optical surfaces, and CCD chamber.

Chapter 3: PI-MAX3 Image Acquisition

Image Acquisition Process Overview

Describes the step-by-step process of converting photons to computer data for PI-MAX3.

Chapter 4: Installation Overview

PI-MAX3 System Installation Actions

Lists the sequence of actions required to install a PI-MAX3 system and prepare for data gathering.

System Block Diagrams for PI-MAX3

Provides typical system-level block diagrams illustrating PI-MAX3 configurations.

Chapter 5: System Setup

Unpacking and Initial System Inspection

Details the procedure for unpacking the PI-MAX3 system and checking for shipping damage.

Verifying System Components and Parts Inventory

Ensures all necessary equipment and parts for PI-MAX3 setup have been received.

Mounting the PI-MAX3 Camera

Provides information on mounting the PI-MAX3 for imaging and spectroscopy applications.

Installing Application Software

Guides through the installation process for WinX/32 and LightField application software.

Connecting PI-MAX3 to CoolCUBEII Circulator

Details the procedure for connecting the PI-MAX3 to the CoolCUBEII coolant circulator.

Connecting PI-MAX3 to Dry Nitrogen Source

Explains how to connect the PI-MAX3 to a dry nitrogen source for photocathode cooling.

Configuring Default System Parameters

Provides information on configuring default system parameters for WinX/32 and LightField.

Chapter 6: First Light Procedures

WinX/32 First Light Setup

Step-by-step procedure for acquiring an imaging measurement in WinX/32 for the first time.

LightField First Light Setup

Step-by-step procedure for acquiring an imaging measurement in LightField for the first time.

Chapter 7: Operation

Data Acquisition Sequence

Illustrates the signal path from intensifier to computer during data acquisition.

WinX/32 System On/Off Sequences

Details the correct power on and off sequences for WinX/32 and the Ethernet interface.

Pre-Exposure Charge Removal

Explains managing dark charge using clean cycles and continuous cleans.

Cleaning Cycles in Operation

Describes the implementation and timing of clean cycles for charge removal.

Temperature Control for PI-MAX3

Covers setting the target temperature and the cooling methods used by the PI-MAX3.

Exposure in PI-MAX3 Systems

Explains the two parts of data acquisition: exposure and readout.

Exposure with Image Intensifier

Details how the image intensifier is used for gating and brightness amplification during exposure.

Saturation and Signal Handling

Discusses pixel saturation (blooming) and strategies for handling high signal levels.

Background Subtraction Techniques

Explains how to subtract dark charge background from acquired data.

CCD Array Readout Processes

Describes the readout of the CCD array, including binning and different readout modes.

Interline CCD Readout Modes

Explains overlapped and non-overlapped readout modes for interline CCDs.

Full Frame CCD Readout Procedures

Details the readout process for a full frame CCD array, pixel by pixel.

Binned Readout (Hardware Binning)

Explains hardware binning for reducing readout time and improving S/N ratio.

Software Binning Techniques

Describes software binning as a post-acquisition process to improve S/N ratio.

Controller Gain Settings

Explains how to configure controller gain (analog gain) for signal acquisition.

Digitization Process

Describes the digitization of analog signals from pixels into digital data.

Logic Out Control Configuration

Details how to configure the TTL-compatible logic level output for monitoring and control.

WinX/32 Experiment Setup Parameters

Guides through configuring parameters on the WinX/32 Experiment Setup dialog.

LightField Experiment Setup Procedures

Provides information on configuring system parameters within the LightField software.

Chapter 8: WinX/32 and Gated Operation

Precautionary Measures for Gated Operation

Covers safety precautions related to intensifier modes and alarms during gated operation.

Timing Mode Selection

Explains timing modes like Internal Sync and the differences between Fast and Safe modes.

MCP Bracket Pulsing Technique

Details MCP bracket pulsing for enhancing on/off ratios, especially in UV measurements.

Additional Experiments with PI-MAX3

Illustrates various experiment types like Static Gate, Swept Gate, and Single Shot.

Swept Gate Experiment Setup

Guides through configuring Swept Gate experiments with fixed or variable width/delay.

Chapter 9: LightField and Gated Operation

Precautionary Measures for LightField Gating

Provides safety precautions for intensifier modes and alarms in LightField gated operation.

Timing Mode Configuration in LightField

Explains timing modes and notes on data processing for PI-MAX3 in LightField.

MCP Bracket Pulsing in LightField

Details MCP bracket pulsing for enhancing on/off ratios in LightField experiments.

Additional Experiments in LightField

Illustrates experiment types like Static Gate, Swept Gate, and Single Shot in LightField.

Swept Gate Experiment Setup in LightField

Guides configuring Swept Gate experiments with fixed or variable width/delay in LightField.

Chapter 10: Timing Generator Pulses and Sequences

Timing Generator Pulse Set Overview

Describes the signals included in a typical pulse set for the timing generator.

Supported Timing Generator Trigger Modes

Details supported trigger modes like Trigger per Pulse and single sequences.

Time Stamping Functionality

Explains how time stamping provides timing data with acquired frames.

Chapter 11: WinX/32 and Dual Image Feature (DIF)

DIF Feature Requirements and Operation

Outlines requirements for DIF, interline CCD operation, and timing modes.

Configuring Single Trigger DIF Experiment

Guides through configuring a single-trigger DIF experiment using WinX/32 software.

Configuring Dual Trigger DIF Experiment

Guides through configuring a dual-trigger DIF experiment using WinX/32 software.

Tips and Tricks for DIF Experiments

Provides practical advice for setting up and troubleshooting DIF experiments.

Chapter 12: LightField and Dual Image Feature (DIF)

DIF Feature Requirements in LightField

Outlines requirements for DIF operation in LightField, including readout mode and frame counts.

Interline CCD Operation for DIF

Explains interline CCD operation relevant to DIF capabilities in LightField.

Trigger Configuration for DIF in LightField

Details trigger configuration using Trigger and SuperSYNCHRO expanders in LightField.

Configuring Single Trigger DIF in LightField

Guides through configuring a single-trigger DIF experiment using LightField software.

Configuring Dual Trigger DIF in LightField

Guides through configuring a dual-trigger DIF experiment using LightField software.

Chapter 13: MCP Gating

MCP Gating Setup and Operation

Provides steps for setting up and operating MCP gating, including cable connections and parameter setup.

MCP Gain Variation Analysis

Explains how MCP gain varies with voltage and gate pulse characteristics.

Fluorescence Experiment Setup

Describes setting up a fluorescence experiment using a pulsed laser and spectrograph.

Hardware Configuration for MCP Gated Operation

Illustrates the hardware block diagram and timing for MCP gated experiments.

Chapter 14: Picosecond Option

Activating Picosecond Gating Operation

Describes how to activate picosecond operation based on the acquisition software used.

Gain and Gate Width Considerations

Explains how intensifier gain falls off with reduced gate width and software selections.

MONITOR Output Operation

Details the MONITOR output calibration and its relation to optical gate opening.

Repetition Rate Issues with Picosecond Gating

Discusses the picosecond gate generator's repetition rate capabilities and limitations.

Timing Criticality in Picosecond Measurements

Highlights the importance of timing when using optical gate widths in nanoseconds.

Methods for Finding Short Optical Pulses

Presents methods for calculating delays and finding short optical pulses.

Chapter 15: Tips and Tricks

Overexposure Protection Measures

Provides warnings and procedures for protecting against overexposure and light damage.

Signal Delay Considerations

Emphasizes the importance of timing for transient signals and gate synchronization.

Optimizing Gate Width and Delay

Guides on optimizing gate width and delay to bracket signal events effectively.

Laser Characteristics and Usage

Provides observations on using pulsed lasers with gated intensified detectors.

Inhibiting Pulser During Readout

Explains how to prevent undesirable artifacts by inhibiting the pulser during readout.

Lens Performance Factors

Reviews basic lens concepts like throughput and depth of field affecting imaging performance.

Baseline Signal Analysis

Explains how to interpret baseline signals, dark charge patterns, and temperature stability.

Temperature Lock Troubleshooting

Addresses issues with achieving or maintaining temperature lock on the PI-MAX3 detector.

Chapter 16: Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting Alarm Issues

Provides steps for resolving repetitive or sporadic alarm conditions.

Troubleshooting Baseline Signal Changes

Addresses sudden changes in baseline signal, possibly due to humidity.

Troubleshooting Camera Communication

Guides on resolving issues when the system cannot communicate with the camera.

Troubleshooting Camera Stop Working

Provides basic checks for hardware issues when the camera stops functioning.

Cooling System Troubleshooting

Addresses common causes for failure to achieve or maintain temperature lock.

Troubleshooting Data Loss or Serial Violations

Identifies potential causes for data loss or serial violation, often related to power saving features.

Troubleshooting Computer Power Up Errors

Addresses errors occurring at boot up, typically related to interface card installation or conflicts.

Troubleshooting Ethernet Network Accessibility

Guides on restoring network connection for WinX/32 and LightField via eBUS driver tools.

Troubleshooting Excessive Readout Noise

Discusses excessive readout noise possibly caused by moisture accumulation in the CCD.

Appendix A: Technical Specifications

PI-MAX3 Camera Specifications

Provides detailed CCD array specifications, including type, format, pixel size, and intensifier details.

PI-MAX3 Mechanical and Electrical Specifications

Covers specifications for repetition rate, TTL requirements, mounts, focal depth, and resolution.

Intensifier Quantum Efficiency Curves

Presents Quantum Efficiency curves for Gen II and Gen III Filmless Intensifiers.

CoolCUBEII Circulator Specifications

Provides specifications for the CoolCUBEII closed-loop cooling system, including hoses and coolant.

Minimum Host Computer Requirements

Lists the minimum system requirements for operating PI-MAX3 cameras with WinView/32 and LightField.

Appendix B: Outline Drawings

PI-MAX3 Outline Drawings

Provides outline drawings for the PI-MAX3 camera with C-Mount, F-Mount, and Spectroscopy-Mount adapters.

PI-MAX3 Power Supply Outline Drawing

Presents an outline drawing of the PI-MAX3 power supply unit.

CoolCUBEII Circulator Outline Drawing

Provides outline drawings for the CoolCUBEII circulator unit.

Appendix C: WinSpec/32 and LightField Cross References

WinSpec/32 to LightField Terminology Mapping

Cross-references WinSpec/32 terms with their corresponding LightField terms.

LightField to WinSpec/32 Terminology Mapping

Cross-references LightField terms with their corresponding WinSpec/32 terms.

Appendix D: Extender Bracket Kit

Extender Bracket Kit Mounting Procedure

Details the procedure for mounting the extender bracket to the PI-MAX3 camera.

Appendix E: Mounting and Focusing Lenses

Lens Mounting Procedures for C- and F-Mounts

Explains how to mount C-mount and F-mount lenses onto the PI-MAX3 camera.

Lens Focusing Techniques

Describes focusing procedures for both C-mount and F-mount lenses.

Appendix F: Mount Adapters

Accessory Kits for PI-MAX3

Lists items included in the PI-MAX3 accessory kits, such as adapter kits and tools.

Changing PI-MAX3 Mount Adapters

Provides a procedure for changing mount adapters on the PI-MAX3 camera.

Spectroscopy-Mount for NVUV Cameras

Details the procedure for mounting spectroscopy adapters on NVUV cameras, including o-ring installation.

Optical Distance from Mounting Face to Image Plane

Specifies the preset optical distances for different mount adapters.

Appendix G: Spectrograph Adapters

Spectrograph-Detector Focus Procedures

Explains focusing and alignment for spectrographs like Acton Research and IsoPlane.

Mounting PI-MAX3 to Acton Research Spectrograph

Provides installation procedures for mounting PI-MAX3 to Teledyne Acton Research spectrographs.

Mounting PI-MAX3 to IsoPlane SCT-320

Details the procedure for mounting the PI-MAX3 directly to an IsoPlane SCT-320 spectrograph.

Appendix H: Glossary

Glossary of Binning and Blooming Terms

Defines terms related to binning, blooming, burst mode, and CCD array characteristics.

Glossary of CCD and Intensifier Terms

Defines terms like Dark Charge, EBI, Exposure Time, External Sync, and Frame.

Glossary of Pulse and Intensifier Terms

Defines terms such as Frame Rate, Full-Well Capacity, FWHM, Gate Delay, Gate Mode, and Gate Width.

Glossary of Intensifier and Coupling Terms

Defines terms related to intensifier types, input windows, and intensifier-CCD coupling.

Glossary of Intensifier and MCP Terms

Defines terms like Intensifier Gating Speed, On/Off Ratio, Intensifier Size, and MCP.

Glossary of Phosphor and Pulse Terms

Defines MCP Bracket Pulsing, MCP Gating, Phosphor Decay Time, Phosphor Type, and Pulse Ensemble.

Glossary of Quantum Efficiency and Safe Mode Terms

Defines Quantum Efficiency, RAM, Region of Interest, Safe Mode, Saturation, and Scanning.

Warranty and Service Information

Limited Warranty Details

Outlines limited warranties, including basic one-year, refurbished products, and XP vacuum chamber.

Owner's Manual and Troubleshooting Guidance

Advises reading the manual and consulting technical support for difficulties.

Customer Responsibilities for Warranty Service

Details customer responsibilities regarding invoices, returns, and warranty exclusions.

Contact Information for Teledyne Princeton Instruments

Provides contact details for technical support, sales, and service assistance.

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