MiCAM05-N256 is a high-speed imaging system that captures and visualizes small changes in fluorescence intensity from biological samples stained with fluorescent probes, such as voltagde sensitive dyes and calcium dyes.
MiCAM05-N256 is designed to be the upgraded version of the previous MiCAM ULTIMA model, which has been used by neuroscience and cardiac research labs internationally, and which has been cited in many scientific research journals.
While inheriting the basic performance features of the MiCAM Ultima system, such as high-speed imaging, high S/N ratios, and intuitive operation, new features have been added in the MiCAM05 system. New features include higher spatial resolution using a newly developed CMOS camera head, long-term recording ability using high speed data transfer, synchronized imaging of up to 4 cameras, expanded functionality, and improved compatibility with external equipment.
- High speed membrane potential imaging using voltage-sensitive dyes
- High speed calcium imaging
- Intrinsic optical signal (IOS) imaging based on flavoproteins and hemoglobin
- Imaging FRET, GCaMP, and various fluorescent proteins such as VSFP
- Ratiometric fluorescence imaging with multiple camera heads
- 3D or panoramic imaging with multiple camera heads
- Detection of small changes in light intensity at high speeds
N256 camera head is equipped with a new CMOS image sensor designed and developed by Brainvision.
Large Sensor and Large Pixel
Active Area Size: 17.6mmx17.6mm
Pixel Size:69μmx69μm
Applications such as membrane potential imaging require both very high speed, and the ability to detect small changes in fluorescence, such as 0.5-1%. In order to optimize S/N ratios, it is important to increase the amount of light captured by one pixel. It is easy to collect light and capture small changes using a sensor having large pixels.
High Spatial Resolution, High Frame Rates, and High S/N Ratios
Number of Pixels: 256×256 pixels
Maximum Frame Rate:1,818 fps (at 256×256 pixels)
Dynamic Range: 71dB
The overall performance has been improved in a balanced manner. This includes maximum frame rate, spatial resolution, and S/N ratios, all of which are important factors for high-speed membrane potential imaging.
Wide Dynamic Range Mode or High Sensitivity Mode by Adjustable Well Depth
Wide dynamic range mode (D-mode): 3,000,000 electrons
High sensitivity mod (S-mode): 600,000 electrons
It is now possible to easily switch the full well capacity of the camera in the acquisition software. Two modes are available: wide dynamic range mode (D-mode), and high sensitivity mode (S-mode). D-mode is used for tissue samples with high fluorescence light intensity, and S-mode is used for cultured cell monolayers, or preps with low fluorescence light intensity. This adjustable well depth makes it possible to image a variety of biological samples using a single camera.
ROI Readout for Higher Frame Rates
Preset partial readout setting and multiple ROI setting can be selected, and as a result it is possible to achieve higher frame rates. For example, ultra high frame rates such 20,000 fps @ 32×32 pixels is possible.
All pixels readout (256×256 pixels) Multiple ROI readout (32×32 pixels x 9 area)
Direct Data Saving and Long-Term Data Acquisition with USB3.0 High-Speed Data Transfer
New USB3.0 interface allows for significantly faster data transfer from processor to PC. It is now possible to save data directly to HDD or SSD, and long-term recording of several minutes up to a few hours can be achieved, regardless of the RAM capacity (Note that sampling rate, number of pixels, number of cameras used, and PC specifications, will affect the total recording time).
(Acquisition with single camera using long term recording mode)
Disk Capacity | Pixels | Frame Rate (fps) |
Number of recordable frames |
Recordable time (min) |
---|---|---|---|---|
SSD 1TB | 256×256 | 500 | 6,840,000 | 228.0 |
1,000 | 6,840,000 | 114.0 | ||
1,818 | 6,840,000 | 62.7 | ||
128×128 | 500 | 27,360,000 | 912.0 | |
1,000 | 27,360,000 | 456.0 | ||
5,263 | 27,360,000 | 86.6 |
Up to four ccameras can easily be connected and used in a completely synchronized multi-camera system
Up to two camera interface boards can be connected to the MiCAM05 processor. Each interface board is equipped with two camera ports, therefore up to four of the same type of camera head can be connected at any time. This allows for simultaneous imaging of multiple fluorescent wavelengths, as well as three-dimensional imaging from different angles.
Continuous output of light intensity is available as a standard function
The light intensity monitor/continuous output function, available as an optional component of MiCAM Ultima (DAC/ADC expanding unit), is available as standard equipment with MiCAM05. This function is designed to output the light intensity changes of up to eight user selected pixels via eight BNC connections. Therefore, waveforms of fluorescence change can be monitored and output before, during, and after data acquisition. It is also possible to monitor the change in light intensity in real time, using optional software.
Light intensity outputs from eight BNC connections Monitor with an oscilloscope
Wave monitor on software
Synchronous Lighting Control of LED Light Source for Multi-Wavelength Excitation Imaging (Optional)
In the case of imaging using multiple fluorescent probes with different excitation wavelengths or imaging using a two-wavelength excitation/single-wavelength fluorescent probe, it is necessary to synchronize the frame timing of the camera and the lighting timing of the light source.
This function is to output the lighting signal synchronized with each frame timing from MiCAM05 to multiple LED light sources. This makes it possible to easily synchronize the frame acquisition with MiCAM05 and LED lighting.
There are up to 4 channels of output. Preset patterns, in which signals are output alternately from each channel, are available. There is no need to set the lighting pattern using a commercially available pulse generator.
Moreover, since the pulse delay time and pulse width can be specified by software, it is possible to make detailed settings in accordance with the rise and fall times of the LED used.
Optional Unit
two-wavelength excitation mode
four-wavelength excitation mode
Various I/O Connectors, and Improved Compatibility with External Devices
MiCAM05 has multiple input and output connections available, in comparison to previous MiCAM systems. These universally standard I/O connections can be synchronized with image acquisition and external devices. An additional slot has been added to MiCAM05 so that customization is also available, depending on the research application.
Automatic Light Control and Adjustment of Light Intensity
In addition to the “Shutter” output terminal for controlling the timing of illumination in synchronization with image acquisition, there is a “LightCtl” signal output terminal for automatically adjusting the intensity of the excitation light. In this way, light intensity or saturation percentage of the image captured by the camera, can be adjusted using the software. As the background light intensity becomes similar throughout an experiment and even for different biological preps, the experimental repeatability can be improved.
Turnkey System Ready for Immediate Use
The system consists of hardware/software specifically designed for high-speed fluorescence imaging, and the PC and monitor are included as standard equipment. Before use, calibration/setting/tuning is not necessary. The hardware connection is straightforward between components using cables, making it possible to acquire data immediately after setup.
Pre/Post Trigger Mode
MiCAM05 can record activity which occurs before and after a trigger signal is generated. When an external trigger occurs, such as a spontaneous biological signal, or a trigger pulse from an external stimulator, a specified amount of “pre-trigger” data can be saved. The “post-trigger” data is also collected in the same recording. As a result, both pre-trigger data and post-trigger data can be saved within one acquisition period.
Time Lapse Imaging
MiCAM05 can capture phenomenon that changes in a few minutes up to several hours, intermittently. Because illumination light is turned on only at the time of image acquisition, phototoxic effects to sample is minimized, and a stable baseline can be acquired.
Example of Time-lapse imaging
High Resolution Camera Control Function (Optional)
It is possible to control a high resolution camera having 1920×1200 pixels (BV-XB1 camera). High resolution imaging can be applied to various applications, including detection of intracellular Ca 2+ dynamics, flavoprotein fluorescence, FRET imaging, and also imaging of animal behaviors. High resolution imaging with BV-XB1 can also be synchronized with MiCAM05 high-speed imaging.
BV-XB1 Example of flavoprotein imaging
Acquisition/Analysis Software (BV Workbench)
BV Workbench is the image acquisition software that controls MiCAM05-N256 imaging system. In addition to image acquisition and control of inputs and outputs of the imaging system, analysis functions including movie playback, wave display, filter functions, etc…are also included. BV Workbench has an intuitive user interface that is easily operated with the use of a mouse.
System | |
---|---|
Name | High Speed Imaging System MiCAM05-N256 |
Model | MC05-N256 |
Standard System Configuration |
Camera Head (1-4), Processor, PC, Monitor, Acquisition software, Analysis Software |
Supported OS | Windows 7/10 64bit |
Default/Optional Function | |
Single Trial Acquisition | Default |
Long Time Acquisition (direct saving to disk) |
Default |
Averaging Acquisition | Default |
Multiple ROI Readout for Higher Frame Rate |
Default |
Time-Lapse Acquisition | Default |
High Resolution Camera Control |
Option (sold separately) |
Acquisition software | Default |
Analysis software | Default |
Camera Head | |
Name | N256 camera |
Model | MC-N256CAM |
Image Sensor | Original CMOS |
Active Pixels (H x V) | 256 x 256 |
Active Image Area (H x V) | 17.6mm x 17.6mm |
Pixels Size (H x V) | 69μm x 69μm |
Shutter Mode | Global |
Maximum Frame Rate and Pixels (for 1 camera) |
1,923fps (256x256px) 3,125fps (192x192px) 5,556fps (128x128px) 20,000fps (32x32px) |
Quantum Efficiency | 55%@550nm / 50%@600nm |
Well-Depth | 3,000,000 e- / 600,000 e- (switching) |
Dark noise | 500 e- / 130 e- |
Dynamic range | 71dB |
Lens mount | Original M42 mount (flange back:14.5mm) (Option: C or F mount) |
Interface | Special Cable |
Dimension (WxHxD) | 80mm x 80mm x 50mm |
Weight | 474g |
Processor | |
Name | MiCAM05 processor |
Model | MC05-PRC |
Camera Interface | 1 (up to 2) |
Camera Port | 2 (up to 4) |
Slot for Optional Unit | 1 |
Buffer Memory Inside Processor |
4GB (up to 8GB) |
Analog Inputs for synchronous recording |
4ch |
Output for Stimulation Pulse | 2ch |
Input for external trigger signal | 1ch |
Output for Lighting Control | 1ch |
Input/Output for Frame Timing | 1ch |
Output for Real Time Light Intensity Monitor |
8ch |
Output for Light Intensity Control | 2ch |
Current Output | 2ch |
Output for Acquisition Status | 1ch |
Output for Trigger Wait Status | 1ch |
Digital I/O port | 1 (25 pins) |
Trigger Mode | Software, TTL External Input, Analog External Input, Usage of Optional Uni |
Data Transfer Mode | USB3.0 (for basic functions) USB2.0 (for Real Time Light Intensity Monitor) |
Recording Mode | Temporary storage to PC RAM / Direct data saving to PC drive (SSD/HDD) |
Maximum Recordable Frame Number |
Dependent on camera used and image acquisition settings |
Power Supply | AC100V-230V、50Hz/60Hz 150W |
Fuse | T2A L 250V |
Dimension | 430mm (W) x 350mm(D) x 75mm(H) |
Weight | 6.2kg |
Selectable Number of Pixels (HxV) | Maximum Frame Rate (fps) | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
NR Mode OFF | NR Mode ON 2 Times Averaging |
NR Mode ON 4 Times Averaging |
||
256×256 | Full Resolution | 1,818 | 1,923 | 1,031 |
192×192 | Square ROI | 2,941 | 3,125 | 1,695 |
128×128 | 5,263 | 5,556 | 3,333 | |
64×64 | 12,500 | 12,500 | 8,333 | |
256×128 | Horizontally Long Rectangle ROI |
3,333 | 3,448 | 1,887 |
256×64 | 5,882 | 5,555 | 3,226 | |
256×32 | 9,091 | 8,333 | 5,000 | |
128×256 | Vertically Long Rectangle ROI |
3,030 | 3,333 | 1,852 |
64×256 | 4,348 | 5,000 | 3,125 | |
32×256 | 5,556 | 7,143 | 4,762 | |
32×32 | 16 blocks | 2,381 | 2,632 | 1,724 |
15 blocks | 2,500 | 2,778 | 1,818 | |
14 blocks | 2,703 | 2,941 | 1,961 | |
13 blocks | 2,857 | 3,125 | 2,083 | |
12 blocks | 3,125 | 3,448 | 2,273 | |
11 blocks | 3,333 | 3,704 | 2,439 | |
10 blocks | 3,704 | 4,000 | 2,703 | |
9 blocks | 4,000 | 4,348 | 2,941 | |
8 blocks | 4,545 | 5,000 | 3,226 | |
7 blocks | 5,000 | 5,556 | 3,704 | |
6 blocks | 5,556 | 6,250 | 4,167 | |
5 blocks | 6,667 | 7,143 | 5,000 | |
4 blocks | 7,692 | 8,333 | 5,882 | |
3 blocks | 10,000 | 11,111 | 7,692 | |
2 blocks | 12,500 | 14,286 | 10,000 | |
1 blocks | 20,000 | 20,000 | 16,667 |
Selectable Number of Pixels (HxV) | Maximum Frame Rate (fps) | |||
---|---|---|---|---|
NR Mode OFF | NR Mode ON 2 Times Averaging |
NR Mode ON 4 Times Averaging |
||
256×256 | Full Resolution | 1,087 | 1,064 | 1,031 |
192×192 | Square ROI | 1,818 | 1,754 | 1,695 |
128×128 | 3,704 | 3,571 | 3,333 | |
64×64 | 9,091 | 8,333 | 8,333 | |
256×128 | Horizontally Long Rectangle ROI |
2,041 | 1,961 | 1,887 |
256×64 | 3,571 | 3,226 | 3,125 | |
256×32 | 5,882 | 5,000 | 5,000 | |
128×256 | Vertically Long Rectangle ROI |
2,000 | 1,961 | 1,852 |
64×256 | 3,571 | 3,448 | 3,125 | |
32×256 | 5,556 | 5,556 | 4,762 | |
32×32 | 16 blocks | 1,887 | 1,613 | 1,613 |
15 blocks | 2,041 | 1,724 | 1,724 | |
14 blocks | 2,174 | 1,852 | 1,852 | |
13 blocks | 2,326 | 1,961 | 1,961 | |
12 blocks | 2,500 | 2,128 | 2,128 | |
11 blocks | 2,703 | 2,326 | 2,326 | |
10 blocks | 2,941 | 2,500 | 2,500 | |
9 blocks | 3,226 | 2,778 | 2,778 | |
8 blocks | 3,571 | 3,125 | 3,125 | |
7 blocks | 4,000 | 3,448 | 3,448 | |
6 blocks | 4,762 | 4,000 | 4,000 | |
5 blocks | 5,556 | 4,762 | 4,762 | |
4 blocks | 6,667 | 5,556 | 5,556 | |
3 blocks | 8,333 | 7,143 | 7,143 | |
2 blocks | 11,111 | 10,000 | 10,000 | |
1 blocks | 16,667 | 16,667 | 16,667 |
System | ||
---|---|---|
Name | MiCAM05-Ultima | MiCAM05-D225 |
Model | MC05-UL | MC05-D225 |
Camera Head | ||
Name | Ultima camera | D225 camera |
Model | CAM-ULT | D225 |
Image Sensor | Original CMOS | Original CMOS |
Active Pixels (HxV) | 100×100 (fixed) | 240×256 (fixed) |
Pixel Size (HxV) | 10.0mmx10.0mm | 7.2mmx7.7mm |
Pixel Size (HxV) | 100μmx100μm | 30μmx30μm |
Shutter Mode | Rolling Shutter | Global Shutter |
Maximum Frame Rate (for 1 camera) |
10,000fps | 1,000fps |
Well-Depth | 1,500,000 e- | 500,000 e- |
Lens Mount | C mount | C mount |
Dimension (WxHxD) | 80mm x 65mm x 50mm | 75mm x 65mm x 50mm |
Weight | 270g | 246g |
Processor | ||
(Same as MiCAM05-N256) |