BRIDGEWATER, New Jersey, March 17, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Hamamatsu has introduced the new ORCA-Flash2.8, its first high-sensitivity digital camera based on a next-generation scientific CMOS image sensor. Designed for low-light imaging at high frame rates, the ORCA-Flash2.8 combines high resolution, high sensitivity, high speed, and low noise at an affordable price.

At the camera's core is a new scientific CMOS image sensor, the FL-280, which features 2.8 megapixels and a pixel size of 3.63 x 3.63 microns, ensuring high resolution. The sensor's wavelength sensitivity ranges from UV to visible, with peak sensitivity (over 60% QE) at about 450 to 500 nm. In addition to high sensitivity, the sensor features low readout noise, typically 3 electrons r.m.s. The sensor's design keeps the readout noise minimal even at very fast readout speeds, unlike traditional image sensors. The FL-280 sensor also has low dark current. Because of its intrinsically low dark current, the sensor requires cooling to +5 deg C only.

Built for high-speed imaging, the ORCA-Flash2.8's readout speed ranges from 45 frames/second at full resolution up to 1273 frames/second with sub-array readout. Other features of the camera include external trigger functions, real-time corrections, and analog gain. The camera is designed for quantitative measurements with 12-bit output, and it interfaces with a PC using a CameraLink frame grabber board (included with the camera).

The ORCA-Flash2.8 is suitable for a wide variety of applications. These include life science imaging such as ratio imaging, FRET, FISH, TIRF microscopy, and real-time confocal microscopy. Other applications include semiconductor inspection and industrial imaging.

Hamamatsu is exhibiting the ORCA-Flash2.8 at Analytica 2010 in Munich, Germany, from March 23 to March 26 (booth number A2 420). Demo cameras will be available from Hamamatsu Corporation in May 2010.

To view full technical specifications, please download the product datasheet from http://sales.hamamatsu.com. Information on pricing and delivery can be obtained by calling Hamamatsu Corporation at 1-800-524-0504. In Europe, please call freephone 00-800-800-800-88 or send email to europe@hamamatsu.com.

About Hamamatsu Corporation

Hamamatsu Corporation is the North American subsidiary of Hamamatsu Photonics K.K. (Japan), a leading manufacturer of devices for the generation and measurement of infrared, visible, and ultraviolet light. These devices include photodiodes, photomultiplier tubes, scientific light sources, infrared detectors, photoconductive detectors, and image sensors. The parent company is dedicated to the advancement of photonics through extensive research. This corporate philosophy results in state-of-the-art products which are used throughout the world in scientific, industrial, and commercial applications.

SOURCE: Hamamatsu Corporation

CONTACT: Leo Kohyama, Hamamatsu Corporation, +1-908-231-0960,lkohyama@hamamatsu.com