Multi-Wavelength Imaging
The vast majority of imaging applications involve the use of more than one fluorescent probe e.g. FRET, dual color imaging, co-localization studies etc. For multi-wavelength imaging Andor Technology has the most flexible and versatile solution available to the researcher.
| Model | Description |
|---|---|
|
TuCam
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High performance, two camera imaging adapter
|
|
Optosplit II
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Dual Emission Image Splitter for single camera.
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TuCam
The TuCam, a new generation two-camera adaptor, for both macro and microscopic applications can be configured for simultaneous imaging from two similar cameras or as a switch between camera models with different imaging capabilities. It is compatible with Andor’s complete range of market leading low light imaging cameras including iXon Ultra and Luca EMCCDs, Clara Interline CCD and the Neo and Zyla sCMOS cameras, as well as any detector from a third party supplier. It is an easy to integrate solution for any laboratory or multi-user imaging facility and extremely user friendly.
The TuCam is an “off-the-shelf” solution and does not need to be integrated into any software. Having the largest aperture on the market means that a wide range of sensors from very small to very large can be used effortlessly with the TuCam.
Optosplit II
A second option is the Optosplit II. This is a simple device enabling a single camera to record images simultaneously at two optically different wavelengths. It is an inexpensive method to perform multi wavelength applications with one camera sensor. The Optosplit II will work with a wide range of imaging cameras.
Both devices can be added seamlessly to your microscope and will benefit your lab or research facility by providing more options and flexibility for the researcher.
High Performance, Two Camera Imaging Adapter
Andor’s TuCam is a new generation two-camera adapter for macro or microscopic imaging applications. Available in C- or CSUX-mount, TuCam features include large aperture, exceptional transmission, very low distortion and high precision alignment using kinematic cassettes.
TuCam can be configured for simultaneous imaging from two similar cameras or as a switch between camera models with different imaging capabilities.
A full range of beam splitting optics are available with custom-designed kinematic cassettes for precision alignment. These include wavelength and polarization splitters of the highest quality as well as a first surface mirror for switching between cameras.
A variety of camera tubes & lenses is available to provide magnifications of 1.0x, 1.2x, 1.5x and 2.0x in each arm of the adapter. A filter wheel can also be integrated at the input of TuCam to enable pre-filtering of the desired emission band.
| Key Specifications | |
| Wavelength range | 400 – 750 nm |
| Throughput (C-mount version) | > 96% (425-675 nm) |
| Throughput (CSUX version) | > 93% (425 to 675 nm) |
| Chromatic aberration (focus shift) | < ± 0.2 mm (486 to 656 nm) |
| Distortion | < 0.5% |
| Differential distortion | < 0.5% |
| Maximum sensor format | 22 mm diagonal |
| Field uniformity | > 90% |
| Chromatic magnification variation | < 25 μm (425 – 675 nm) |
| Camera field alignment error | < 32 μm |
Features and Benefits
| Features | Benefits |
| Largest aperture | Unique 22 mm aperture for large format sensors e.g. sCMOS |
| High Quality achromatic lenses | Image from 425 – 700 nm with minimal adjustment |
| Highest transmission | > 96% @ 425 – 700 nm |
| Very low distortion | < 0.5% |
| Bypass mode | Dovetail mount for precise insertion, exchange and bypass of optical elements |
| Robust, compact & accurate | Rigid structure provides optical and mechanical stability |
| Convenient user adjustment | User-controls for focus adjustment and 2-axis cassette alignment are accessed via the front porch |
| C-mount and CSU versions | Couple directly to filter wheels, microscopes, C-lenses and spinning disk confocal scanners |
| Various magnifications | Adapt cameras to CSU aperture or control effective pixel size |
One Camera Solution – Dual Emission Image Splitter
The Optosplit image splitter is sold by Andor as part of our dual wavelength imaging portfolio. It is a simple device enabling a single camera to record images simultaneously at two different optical wavelengths.
Traditionally an electronic filter changer or a second camera would be used, neither of which is ideal for some applications. The Optosplit has been designed as a convenient, inexpensive solution to simultaneous dual wavelength imaging. It has the unique feature of a rotating mirror cradle, which gives adjustable spatial separation, to facilitate image registration.
Device drivers are included in several commercial imaging packages to assist registration and to allow real-time and off-line ratioing or fluorescence overlays. Alternatively, the Optosplit can be used with simple image capture software and the processing carried out manually off-line. The simple and accessible design makes the Optosplit an excellent platform for alternative applications, such as dual polarization imaging. Whilst optimized for coupling to a scientific microscope, the Optosplit can also be used with camera lenses or any other system of lenses that produce an image plane of suitable size.
| Features | Benefits |
| Variable internal path separation | Allows optimization of the internal optics to match the aperture of the optical system, therefore minimizing the introduction of aberrations. |
| Dichroic mirror and emission filters mounted in a readily interchangeable cube | Allows the user to exchange filter sets both easily and quickly. Some competing products have factory fitted filters. |
| Variable and locking rectangular diaphragm aperture for defining field size | Allows the user to define the ROI both horizontally and vertically and set the images to the optimum size for the camera sensor. Once set, the aperture can be locked in position |
| Compact design with integral C-mount input and output ports | Advantageous where laboratory space is at a premium and the integral C-mounts allow it to be easily attached to a wide variety of standard microscopes and CCD cameras. |
| Simple and precise controls for image registration | Allow the split images to be accurately and easily centred in the desired field of view, and pixels aligned with respect to each other. |
| Interchangeable filter / dichroic holders for dual and single wavelength imaging | Flexibility to use multiple wavelengths by simply changing filter and re-sizing the defined field. |
| Aperture diaphragms to balance signal levels if appropriate | Acts as an adjustable neutral density filter, which can be more convenient than using neutral density filters. |
| Choice of magnification | Enables accurate filling of the users’ sensor without resorting to additional optical relays and the inherent light losses. |
| Rotating filter mount for polarization studies | Accurately orientates the emission polarization to maximize the contrast between the two channels. |
