SR Series

Product Introduction

The SR series is designed for ultra-high resolution scientific imaging, utilizing the VPS2163A high-precision CMOS image sensor. It captures images at 20,480 × 27,200 (≈ 557 megapixels) with a 0.5 µm pixel size, ideal for cell morphology, biological tissue structure, semiconductor/wafer defect inspection, and microstructure metrology applications.

The camera features a USB 3.0 interface with 8/10-bit output formats and built-in buffer to ensure stable acquisition of large pixel images. Typical frame interval for full-resolution images is approximately 6 s (depending on acquisition and storage conditions).

The SR series incorporates an efficient thermal control system with TEC cooling, reducing the sensor's operating temperature by about 40 °C below ambient (ΔT ≈ 40 °C). This effectively suppresses dark current and enhances consistency during long-term acquisition. The compact body supports both free-running and external triggering, compatible with various lens mounts. It comes with ToupView software and cross-platform SDK (Windows/Linux, C/C++/C#/Python) for easy system integration and custom development.

Product Features

  • VPS2163A high-resolution CMOS image sensor
  • Single frame resolution: 20,480 × 27,200 (≈ 557 megapixels)
  • Pixel size: 0.5 µm × 0.5 µm, diagonal ≈ 17.0 mm (≈ 1.0″ optical format)
  • Rolling shutter operation mode
  • Typical frame interval at full resolution: ≈ 6 s (≈ 0.17 fps, depends on acquisition and storage conditions)
  • Built-in ≥ 1 GB buffer (or specified as segmented buffer) ensuring stable transfer of large pixel data
  • USB 3.0 (5 Gbps) data interface
  • Image data format: 8/10-bit (12-bit or higher if supported by the chip)
  • TEC cooling and closed-loop temperature control, typical ΔT ≈ 40 °C (below ambient), reducing dark current
  • Triggering: Free-running and external trigger
  • Lens mount: C (1.1″ coverage) / F / M42 (model dependent)
  • Power supply: 12 V DC adapter
  • Operating environment: Recommended 0 to 40 °C (or as per final thermal design), 20% to 80% RH (non-condensing)
  • Windows / Linux SDK (C/C++/C#/Python), bundled with ToupView
  • Supports on-site firmware upgrades
  • Compliant with CE / FCC / RoHS (model dependent)

Product Models

VPS2163A Ultra-High Resolution sCMOS | 20,480 × 27,200 (≈ 557 MP), 0.5 µm, USB 3.0, for Cytology/Histology/Wafer Defect Inspection and Ultra-Precision Imaging

Model Sensor / Size Resolution Pixel Size Shutter Frame Rate Interface Dynamic
Range
Action
SR557MMA
VPS2163A (sCMOS) 1.06" (17.02 mm) | 10.24 mm × 13.6 mm
557.1 MP (20480×27200) 0.5 µm × 0.5 µm Rolling Shutter
0.17 fps @ 20480×27200 (≈6 s/frame)
USB 3.0 (5 Gbps)
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View Details

Frequently Asked Questions

Learn more about scientific CMOS cameras

A scientific CMOS (sCMOS) camera combines the strengths of CCD and CMOS technology, delivering ultra-low noise, high frame rate, wide dynamic range, and high quantum efficiency—ideal for scientific research and precision measurement.

  • Ultra-low read noise: sCMOS read noise approaches 1 e⁻, far outperforming traditional CCDs.
  • High frame rate: Parallel readout architecture supports 100 fps or higher.
  • Wide dynamic range: Captures bright and dark regions simultaneously with ratios up to tens of thousands to one.
  • Large field of view and high resolution: Suits high-resolution, wide-field imaging.

Most sCMOS sensors adopt a rolling shutter for high-speed line-by-line readout. Some support pseudo-global shutter via synchronized illumination for tear-free imaging.

They are used widely in biological microscopy, fluorescence imaging, fast object inspection, astronomy, X-ray imaging, cold atom research, and other precision-science scenarios.

EMCCD cameras excel in ultra-low light or long-exposure conditions.

sCMOS delivers greater value for high-resolution, high-speed imaging with low noise.

In-Depth Product Overview

sCMOS Sensor Architecture

Each pixel has its own amplifier and column ADC for parallel readout, enabling high-speed, high-SNR imaging. Dual gain channels and dual ADC designs further expand dynamic range and sensitivity.

Low Noise + Wide Dynamic Range

Typical sCMOS noise is < 2 e⁻ (30 fps) with dynamic range up to 50,000:1—far exceeding traditional CCDs.

Fast Readout & Versatility

Parallel readout supports >100 fps for capturing fast events such as cell motion, fluorescence lifetime studies, and plasma dynamics.

Low-Light Performance

Back-illuminated sCMOS sensors achieve >95% QE from UV to NIR, with low fixed-pattern noise and cooling down to −30 °C for astronomy and other needs.

Application Scenarios & System Value

Ideal for fluorescence microscopy, astronomy, cold atom research, X-ray imaging, materials inspection, and industrial microscopy—delivering high sensitivity, precision, and adaptability.

Key Application Areas

Representative sCMOS applications

sCMOS Technology Advantages Summary

  • Ultra-low read noise (<2 e⁻)
  • High frame rate (>100 fps)
  • Wide dynamic range (50,000:1)
  • High quantum efficiency (>95%)
  • Large FOV, high resolution
  • Cooling capability (−30 °C)
  • Parallel readout architecture
  • Adaptable to diverse research needs