Choosing the Best Camera System for Your Biological Light Microscopy Needs: Part II

Abstract

Abstract Digital imaging has made scientific microscopy much faster and facilitated a range of imaging techniques not previously available. Advances in microscope digital image detection systems over the last decade have played an integral part in establishing digital imaging as the method of choice for most types of microscopy. Current systems represent advancements in hardware and software components adapted for both established techniques and for a variety of novel methods using light to extract microscopic detail from biological samples. These advanced systems provide an unprecedented ability to capture the most detail possible from a variety of sample types and image applications. With this complexity, however, comes the need to have a basic understanding of how individual camera systems operate so the best solution for an imaging need can be adopted. In this article, I will describe some key differences between camera options and how to evaluate whether a particular type of system is best suited to a specific research requirement. Although I have focused on the key attributes of systems for biological microscopy, the information is broadly applicable to other types of microscopic samples.