2. What technology to use – rule of thumb guide
Why use EMCCDs?
Ultrasensitivity, speed and flexibility are their biggest attributes! Whether there
is a current need, or even a future possibility that experimental requirements will
evolve towards faster frame rates and/or ultra-sensitivity, EMCCD represents an
ideal choice. Use them as a conventional CCD when not required in this mode!
Why use CCDs?
When you can apply long exposures or there is sufficient light intensity for signal
to be well clear of read noise floor, a high QE, deep-cooled, slow readout (kHz
pixel rate) CCD can deliver the highest S/N of all!
Why use ICCDs?
When nanosecond or picosecond gating is required. Can be good for single photon
counting with cooled photocathodes (low spurious noise) and fast readout capability
(required for SPC dynamic range). NIR photocathodes.
Why use EBCCDs?
Alternative to ICCDs.
3 EMCCD vs ICCD – experimental comparison