Sydor ROSS Streak Camera
Streak cameras are used to collect intensity, time, and position information from ultra-fast light phenomena.
Streak cameras can be paired with spectrometers, where spectral information has been encoded along the spatial dimension. Timing performance can be as low as 5 ps per temporal resolution element.
At Sydor Technologies, we believe our accessibility and customer-centric approach sets us apart from other streak camera manufacturers. We believe that each streak camera is as individual as the person operating it. Each system is built to order to allow customization for the application and techniques being performed. At our 1-on-1 application consultations, any questions about the system or further customizations are addressed. This personal approach continues through delivery, system acceptance, installation, and on-site training. Our teams offer continued support post-delivery through the Sydor Maintenance Plans.
Streak tube technology is based on similar opto-electronic components as the cathode-ray tubes previously used in televisions. They are one of only a few techniques that are able to record events in the pico-second to femto-second timescales with spatial information, especially when there are large signal variations and a large dynamic range is needed.
Sydor’s streak cameras are fielded in laboratories with strict detector design requirements. This can be anything from specific constraints in the mechanical profile and access to sub-systems within the camera, to a need for unique time bases (ramp durations), as well as custom light delivery to the photocathode (data head, spectrometer integration).
Streak cameras are commonly used in time-resolved spectroscopy, LIDAR, and as laser profile diagnostics on high-power complex laser-systems.
How to configure a Streak Camera
Predesigned for relaying the image to the photocathode slit: chromatic aberration-free (reflective design), clean imaging over the whole photocathode, built-in adjustable slit. This unit eases the alternative requirement (usually lens coupled and not reproducible), to get data onto the streak camera.
From sub 140 nm (using CsTe, CsI, gold, etc.) and from 140 to 900 nm using Gen II alkali-based vacuum photocathodes, such as S20B (blue enhanced), S20LN (low noise) S20, or S25. Input windows from MgF2 to FS and fiber are available to allow for maximum transmission.
Sydor’s systems provide maximum dynamic range for sweeps by allowing customers to define the specific window needed. Our solution engineers work with the customer to decide the sweep ranges based on the application. Between 4 and 16 sweep windows are available per camera (depending on the model). This allows you to select 76 ns sweeps/ For example, instead of being forced in a 100 ns time (losing ~25% of the range). Sydor provides unsurpassed linearity for temporal performance during the ultra-fast deflection of the electron beam. This linearity is thoroughly tested and certified by Sydor (using Sydor pulsed laser sources specific for this calibration task). Sydor’s calibrations then correct any remaining temporal non-lineartity by correcting the recorded images. This is especially important for the very fastest sweep speeds.
Each ROSS Streak Camera is optimized for temporal performance and varies based on model selection. There is an inherent trade-off between longer sweep windows (recording time) and the time resolution.
Periscopes are available to allow customer input of a timing fiducial onto the data collection during a sweep. The input is easily connected to a periscope built into the system to channel the light onto the phosphor. Sydor provides timing pulse/comb generators as input devices.
The streak tube phosphor is either fiber-coupled or lens-coupled to a scientific imaging camera which digitizes and records the phosphor image. Sydor offers our standard set of readout cameras or can accommodate specific customer requests.
Each streak camera is run through a series of tests to qualify the system performance. This includes identification of the best voltage for the focus electrode, measuring geometric distortions, and precisely calibrating each sweep window. The results of this battery of tests are shipped with each system, and calibration files (where applicable) are provided.
Individual components required to calibrate the spatial and temporal response of the streak cameras include pulsed laser sources, a flat-field illuminator, reticle nest, CCD triggers, and shutter control boxes.
DynaCal is a powerful in-situ calibration tool that allows remote calibration and verification on the ROSS 5800. Users can easily calibrate prior to each shot, as there is no need to remove the system from the hutch or bench-top. DynaCal combines the individual components (pulsed laser source, flat-field illuminator, reticle nest., etc.) into one set of hardware, which is integrated into the ROSS 5800 housing and controllable through the same ROSS_App interface.
Service and maintenance plans typically include annual on-site visits accompanied by 2 days of training by our experienced solution engineers. This allows new users the chance to learn best practices for streak camera operation, as well as have our technicians perform calibration tests similar to those done at the factory.
Products
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ROSS 5800 Streak Camera
The ROSS 5800 is used in critical science experiments where a large field of view must provide concurrently space and time focused events, through various ramp speeds. Sydor accomplishes this…
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ROSS 2000 Streak Camera
Similar to the ROSS 1000, the ROSS 2000 is ideal for multi-user facilities requiring an easy-to-operate streak camera with interchangable timing boards. The 2000-series offers a large photocathode, measuring 18…
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ROSS 1000 Streak Camera
The ROSS 1000 is ideal for multi-user facilities requiring an easy-to-operate streak camera with interchangable timing boards. The ROSS 1000 allows users to customize their timing boards with up to…
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ROSSApp
Sydor’s ROSSApp software provides a powerful tool that enables calibration, acquisition, instant post-processing of data and features a simple scripting language for data and reporting automation. The interface enables anyone…
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Resources
Datasheet
Sydor ROSS 1000 DatasheetDatasheet
Sydor ROSS 2000 DatasheetDatasheet
Sydor ROSS 5800 DatasheetDatasheet
Sydor Fiberized Laser Pulser DatasheetDatasheet
Sydor Comb Generators DatasheetTechnical Note
Technical Note: Time Calibration Techniques