Vision Research Unveils Near Infrared Digital High-Speed Camera July 6, 2010
Phantom ir300 Provides Extended Spectral Response Beyond Visible Light
Vision Research, a leading manufacturer of digital high speed imaging systems, today added even more versatility to its renowned and award-winning line-up of digital high-speed cameras with the introduction of the Phantom® ir300. Built off of the high-performance Phantom v7.3, the new Phantom ir300 incorporates a specially engineered 800x600 CMOS sensor which allows users to image fast-action events which occur beyond visible light into the near infrared spectrum (NIR). While the sensitivity of most CMOS sensors begins to rapidly decline at wavelengths above 600nm, the Phantom ir300 extends that point to greater than 800nm, giving the camera a usable range to about 1,100nm.
“The Phantom ir300 is an extremely powerful tool and Vision Research is proud to offer a digital high-speed imaging solution that’s up to the task of capturing detailed images in the NIR spectrum,” said Rick Robinson, divisional vice president – marketing, for Vision Research. “Although the Phantom ir300 features a custom designed CMOS sensor with an extended spectral response that allows the camera to see in the NIR spectrum, it’s not classified as a thermal imaging camera. With the ability to capture events which take place in the 600nm-1,100nm range, users can now record high speed video even if they’re shooting in complete darkness.”
If illumination is required, NIR light sources, such as lasers or 850nm wavelength LED lights, can be used. This allows users to illuminate a subject and capture high speed video without having to resort to the use of visible light. Imaging at these wavelengths is extremely beneficial for a number of applications, such as nocturnal animal studies, where the use of visible light would be detrimental as it would disturb the natural environment of the subjects.
The Phantom ir300 can capture images between 6,688 fps and 190,000 fps, depending upon resolution, and users have the ability to adjust exposure to as short as 2 microseconds. Additional features of the Phantom ir300 include:
• 14-bit image depth
• 4800 ISO monochrome
• Continuously adjustable resolution in 32x8 increments
• Global on-chip shuttering to 2 microseconds
• Extreme Dynamic Range (EDR) and Auto Exposure
• 8GB or 16GB versions
• IRIG-B timing capture, modulated or unmodulated, IRIG lock with phase shift
• Video output (NTSC, PAL, HD-SDI)
• Gb Ethernet control
• Automated continuous recording for remote, unmanned operation
• Optional external mechanical shutter for hands-off black references
• Optional Canon EOS lens mount for remote lens control
