New X-ray Hystar range of high-performance image detectors

The new X-ray Hystar is a high-performance, high-resolution digital slow scan CCD camera with 16-bit image digitization that is available with a range of selected CCD sensors and coherent micro-fibre optic coupled optimized scintillator inputs. The CCD sensors offered are 2048 × 2048 pixels with single-channel readout or 2048 × 2048 pixels with four-channel readout for faster frame rates and 1024 × 1024 pixels with back illumination and single-channel readout. Models with additional CCD sensor options may be introduced in the future. Fibre-optic inputs include: direct 1:1 coupling for the greatest sensitivity and efficiency; magnifying tapers with an input size of 6 mm diameter (with 6 µm optical pixel resolution) and demagnifying tapers with up to 165 mm input diameter (with 57 µm optical pixel resolution).

The design of the new X-ray Hystar includes all new electronics for exceptional image stability and low noise performance. The new mechanical design gives improved cooling efficiency with greater robustness and protection from coolant leakage and spills. The modular design permits a choice of either water-cooling or air-cooling. The X-ray Hystar can be used with a UHV interface for EUV/XUV vacuum imaging. Interchangeable scintillator inputs can be manufactured to suit particular energy requirements (from EUV hard X-ray).

The new computer control interface allows greater acquisition flexibility and offers a wider range of acquisition software options. Software functions include, gain, user-definable integration period, binning 1× to 63× and sub-area readout. The X-ray Hystar conforms to the PSLink camera control protocol.