Shortwave infrared “snapshot” imager offers new options for biomedical imaging and security
Golden, Colorado (December 5, 2012) – PIXELTEQ has introduced PixelCam™, the first commercially available “snapshot” multispectral cameras for shortwave infrared (SWIR) analysis up to 1700 nm. The cameras harness SWIR’s powerful imaging by simultaneously acquiring four or more standard and custom spectral bands with a single camera, enabling extraction of spectral information not noticeable with panchromatic SWIR devices. This feature makes the PixelCam especially useful for applications in biomedical imaging, process control and high-contrast security and surveillance environments.
The breakthrough to provide these compact multispectral camera platforms is combining PIXELTEQ’s precision micro-patterned optical coating technology with robust SWIR area sensor cameras manufactured by Sensors Unlimited of UTC Aerospace Systems. High-transmission dichroic filter arrays are aligned directly over corresponding pixels in the imaging array for optimal spectral and spatial resolution. Standard PixelCam cameras come preconfigured with three and four bands, and custom cameras are available with additional application-specific bands – providing greater versatility and contrast than traditional multi-sensor devices.
“PixelCam makes this sophisticated multispectral SWIR technology – which used to be limited to highly specialized projects – now much more accessible, portable and practical for all kinds of research and production applications,” said Randel Mercer, Vice President of Business Development for Ocean Thin Films. “Its unique pixel-level filters make PixelCam the first commercial ‘snapshot’ camera that can be customized and scaled for your specific multispectral application.”
At the heart of each PixelCam multispectral camera is a custom filter array integrated into a solid-state InGaAs imager with a full resolution of 640×512. Its sturdy platform provides simultaneous 12-bit Camera Link® digital and RS170 analog outputs and an external trigger. The form factor, frame rates, operating temperature and power requirements are unchanged by the passive spectral filters – enabling easy integration into handheld, mobile and aerial devices.
About PIXELTEQ
PIXELTEQ provides OEM spectral sensing and imaging products, patterned optical filters and custom electro-optical devices for a variety of aerospace, biomedical, industrial, scientific and security applications. At the heart of each multispectral device is an array of pixel-level spectral filters purpose-built for applications. Leveraging comprehensive know-how in thin film coating, micro-patterning and electro-optical integration, PIXELTEQ’s specialists collaborate with client teams to provide expert design assistance and custom-engineered solutions from rapid prototyping through high-volume OEM production. PIXELTEQ solutions are provided by Ocean Thin Films, Inc. a subsidiary of Halma plc, an international market leader in safety, health and sensor technology.