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

Choose the best SR Series model for your application needs

Model Sensor Resolution Pixel Size Frame Rate Data Interface Dynamic Range Action
SR557MMA
VPS2163A (sCMOS) 10.24 mm × 13.6 mm
557.1 MP (20480×27200) 0.5 µm × 0.5 µm
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