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5. Image sensors
In fluorescence, light levels are low, and sensor efficiency and noise play a significant role in the final image. Depending on the technology used, the image will be acquired point by point, line by line, or, more often, by direct filling of a CCD-type matrix sensor.
Sensors are characterized by their quantum efficiency and noise level. Efficiency is measured in % of electrons per photon. It depends on wavelength, and can approach 95%.
Thermal noise is the stochastic production of electrons in the absence of a light source. This noise is roughly doubled every 8°C. Sensors are cooled either to a temperature slightly above 0°C, or to a lower one, down to – 90 °C , taking into account the risk of icing and condensation (dry air blower, for example).
On cameras, read noise...
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Image sensors
Industrial players in fluorescence microscopy
Bibliography
Software tools
Image capture and peripheral control
Metamorph http://www.moleculardevices.comcom/Products/Software/Meta-Imaging-Series/MetaMorph.html
Peripheral control
Websites
A wealth of information about microscopy can be found on the website published by the Federal University of Florida. http://www.micro.magnet.fsu.edu/
Historical and review articles on light microscopy from the journal Nature http://www.nature.com/milestones/light-microscopy
...Events
Thematic school on functional microscopy in biology http://www.mifobio.fr/
Directory
Manufacturers – Microscopes (non-exhaustive list)
Leica http://www.leica-microsystems.com/
Nikon http://www.nikoninstruments.com/
Olympus http://www.olympusmicro.com/
...
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