Imaging Cameras & Sensors – Wavefront Sensors
Scientific CMOS (sCMOS) Quantitative Phase Imaging Camera
High-Sensitivity Scientific sCMOS Quantitative Phase Imaging Camera for Label-Free Microscopy and Material Metrology
The Scientific CMOS (sCMOS) Quantitative Phase Imaging Camera- SID4 sC8 delivers breakthrough imaging capability for label-free, high-precision phase measurement in both life science and material inspection applications. Designed around advanced sCMOS sensor technology, this camera captures true quantitative phase and intensity information in a single shot, enabling non-invasive imaging of transparent specimens and precise surface characterization. With a compact, plug-and-play form factor and compatibility with standard microscopes and acquisition software, researchers can seamlessly integrate powerful phase imaging into existing workflows. Ideal for live cell analysis, refractive index mapping, and optical metrology, this system expands imaging possibilities with sub-nanometric sensitivity and real-time performance.
Understanding Scientific CMOS (sCMOS) Quantitative Phase Imaging Camera
The quantitative phase imaging camera uses sCMOS sensor technology to capture both phase shift and intensity values from a specimen in a single image acquisition, enabling true quantitative phase imaging (QPI) without labels or staining. This is achieved using Phasics’ patented wavefront sensing techniques that measure the optical path difference created when light passes through or reflects off a transparent sample. The system operates across a broad visible to near-infrared spectral range, delivering high sensitivity with low noise and rapid frame rates. Its compact design and USB3.0 interface make it easy to connect to microscopes, workstations, and imaging setups for both scientific research and industrial metrology.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Imaging Sensor | Scientific CMOS (sCMOS) |
| Sensor Resolution | 2048 × 2048 pixels (≈4.2 MP) |
| Pixel Size | 6.5 µm × 6.5 µm |
| Frame Rate | Up to 30 fps (full resolution) |
| Phase Sensitivity | < 2 nm RMS (optical path difference) |
| Phase Measurement Accuracy | ±5 nm (typical) |
| Spatial Resolution | Limited by microscope optics (down to diffraction limit) |
| Wavelength Range | 400 – 1050 nm |
| Dynamic Phase Range | > 20 µm optical path difference |
| Measurement Mode | Single-shot quantitative phase + intensity |
| Acquisition Type | Real-time, full-field phase imaging |
| Bit Depth | 16-bit |
| Noise (Read Noise) | < 2 electrons RMS |
| Interface | USB 3.0 |
| Optical Mount | C-mount |
| Compatible Objectives | 5× to 100× (NA dependent) |
| Minimum Detectable Thickness Change | ~1–2 nm (material dependent) |
| Refractive Index Resolution | ~1 × 10⁻⁴ |
| Field of View | Sensor-limited; objective dependent |
| Calibration Requirement | Factory calibrated; software-assisted recalibration |
| Software Compatibility | Micro-Manager, MetaMorph, custom SDK |
| Operating Temperature | +10 °C to +40 °C |
| Power Supply | USB-powered / external 12 V (depending on configuration) |
| Camera Dimensions | Compact industrial camera housing |
| System Weight | < 1.5 kg |
Key Features and Advantages
Advanced sCMOS Sensor Technology
Equipped with a scientific CMOS sensor, this camera combines low noise, high quantum efficiency, and fast frame rates, ideal for high-resolution imaging and dynamic phase measurement.
Single-Shot Phase and Intensity Capture
Simultaneously records precise phase and intensity data in one frame, enabling accurate and artefact-free quantitative phase imaging without the need for multiple exposures.
Sub-Nanometric Phase Sensitivity
Capable of resolving optical path differences with sub-nanometric accuracy (< 2 nm RMS), making it suitable for detailed thickness or refractive index mapping in transparent samples. phasics.com
Plug-and-Play Integration
Compact form factor and standard interfaces (USB3.0, C-mount) simplify integration with existing optical microscopes or imaging systems without complex setup.
Broad Spectral Range
Operates over a 400–1050 nm wavelength range, supporting flexibility in illumination and compatibility with various contrast methods.
Real-Time Processing
Supports real-time phase reconstruction and live imaging workflows at rates up to ~10 Hz (full resolution), enabling dynamic studies such as time-lapse microscopy.
Software Compatibility
Works with popular acquisition software such as Micro-Manager, MetaMorph, and NIS-Elements, allowing familiar control and analysis environments.
Non-Invasive, Label-Free Imaging
Unlike fluorescence or staining techniques, quantitative phase imaging is non-destructive and avoids phototoxicity—ideal for live cell applications.
Versatile Measurement Modes
Unlocks applications in refractive index mapping, laser damage threshold analysis, surface topography, and biological morphology studies.
Applications Across Industries
Life Sciences and Biomedical Research
Quantitative phase imaging allows label-free monitoring of live cells and tissues, measuring morphology, dry mass, and dynamic behaviour without staining. It supports studies such as cell cycle analysis, cytotoxicity screening, and stem cell research with high contrast and minimal artefacts.
Material Science and Metrology
The camera provides precise refractive index mapping, surface topography, and transparent material inspection. Researchers can analyse thin films, optical waveguides, nanostructures, and stress patterns with quantitative phase data for material characterisation and quality control.
Microscopy and Imaging Platforms
Quantitative phase imaging enhances traditional microscopy workflows by adding phase measurement capability to brightfield and fluorescence setups, enabling multimodal imaging with comprehensive datasets for detailed research.
Optics and Photonics Testing
Used for optical component testing such as lens surface profiling, metasurface analysis, and wavefront measurements, delivering highly accurate phase information critical to advanced optical manufacturing.
Semiconductor and Nanotechnology
Phase imaging can reveal sub-micrometric refractive index variations in semiconductor structures, aiding defect detection, waveguide metrology, and nano-feature characterisation.
Environmental and Biomedical Diagnostics
Enables label-free morphology studies for blood cells, microorganisms, and tissues, supporting diagnostics without traditional dyes or reagents.
Education and Research Institutions
Provides a versatile imaging tool for teaching advanced optics, microscopy, and quantitative imaging techniques across multidisciplinary research.
Why Choose United Spectrum Instruments?
United Spectrum Instruments is your trusted partner for advanced scientific imaging solutions in India, offering expert guidance, local support, and seamless integration of high-performance systems like quantitative phase imaging cameras. We deliver tailored configuration, installation, and training services to ensure your laboratory or production workflow achieves maximum performance and reliability. Our team understands the precise requirements of research, microscopy, and metrology environments and provides responsive support throughout the system lifecycle. With United Spectrum Instruments, you get world-class imaging technology backed by industry expertise and dependable service.
FAQs
What is quantitative phase imaging?
Quantitative phase imaging measures the phase shift of light through a sample, revealing optical path differences related to refractive index and thickness—without staining or labels.
Can this camera be used with standard microscopes?
Yes, it integrates easily with conventional optical microscopes via a C-mount interface.
What kinds of samples benefit from phase imaging?
Transparent or semi-transparent specimens such as live cells, thin films, optical waveguides, and biological tissues are ideal.
Does the system support real-time imaging?
Yes, it supports real-time processing at up to ~10 Hz at full resolution, enabling live observation of dynamic processes
Is special software required?
No; it is compatible with common imaging software like Micro-Manager and MetaMorph for acquisition and analysis.
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FAQs
What is quantitative phase imaging?
Quantitative phase imaging measures the phase shift of light through a sample, revealing optical path differences related to refractive index and thickness—without staining or labels.
Can this camera be used with standard microscopes?
Yes, it integrates easily with conventional optical microscopes via a C-mount interface.
What kinds of samples benefit from phase imaging?
Transparent or semi-transparent specimens such as live cells, thin films, optical waveguides, and biological tissues are ideal.
Does the system support real-time imaging?
Yes, it supports real-time processing at up to ~10 Hz at full resolution, enabling live observation of dynamic processes
Is special software required?
No; it is compatible with common imaging software like Micro-Manager and MetaMorph for acquisition and analysis.

