Products: PI-MAX4 ICCD & emICCD

The reference standard for time resolved imaging and spectroscopy
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NEWS of NOTE:
Twelve PI-MAX4: 2048 ICCD cameras were instrumental in the Shock Physics experimental resarch conducted by Yogendra Gupta of Washington State University at the Argonne National Lab's Advanced Photon Source synchrotron.
PI-MAX4 intensified cameras are the renowned gated imaging and spectroscopy cameras for such applications as LIBS, plasma diagnostics, combustion, quantum computing, photon counting, and frequency-domain / time-domain fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM).
Powered by our beautiful LightField software, the PI-MAX4 ICCD and emICCD cameras pack innovative features into its compact design are sustained repetition rates of up to 1 MHz, video-rate to over 10,000 spectra per second capture rates, <500 psec ultra-fast gating, and double image feature (DIF).
The PI-MAX4 cameras support widest variety of sensors including 512x512 and 1024x1024 back illuminated EMCCDs, 1024x256, 1024x1024, 2048x2048 CCDs; and scientific grade Gen II and Gen III intensifiers
No wonder, hundreds of leading labs around the world rely on PI-MAX for their time resolved imaging and spectroscopy experiments.
"The new PI-MAX4:512EM has advanced our time-resolved SRS spectroscopy technique to the next level. It allowed us to capture spectra at a sampling rate of 10 kHz to keep pace with our new high-frequency laser and enabled our novel effort to develop time-series multi-scalar diagnostics in a high-pressure combustor at NASA Glenn Research Center.
Unlike an EMCCD camera where gating capability is limited, the ultrafast gating of the emICCD permits me to gate-out background optical flame emission far better — without sacrificing the superior sensitivity, signal gain, and dynamic range of the EMCCD chip."
– Dr. Jun Kojima, Principal Scientist, Ohio Aerospace Institute.
Fast frame rates
- video frame rate at full resolution and >300 fps with reduced resolution and binning
- >10,000 spectra per second sustained frame rate in spectroscopy mode
- Ability to capture a gated image or spectrum for every pulse from high-repetition-rate lasers.
Super HV
PI-MAX4 cameras boast SuperHV, the latest in high-voltage gating technology, to power the intensifier as well as turn it on and off in response to programmed delays and widths. It is capable of a 1 MHz sustained repetition rate, which is a 20x improvement over previous-generation ICCD cameras.
Double image feature
- PI-MAX4:1024i uses an interline CCD to enable capture of two full-resolution images with less than 2 usec inter-frame time.
- Use two images for particle imaging velocimetry or use one of the images as real-time background/reference .
- Intuitive visual gating dashboard makes DIF set up easy
Picosecond gating technology
- Ultra-fast <500 psec gating without sacrificing QE
- No special intensifiers with metal-grid underlayers that will degrade the QE of the photocathode
- Calibrated for true optical full width at half maximum (FWHM)
- Delivers exceptionally high temporal resolution for effective background discrimination.
SuperSynchro timing generator
- Built-in, precision timing generator controls intensifier gating,
- Dynamically controls gate widths and delays in 10 psec steps
- SyncMASTER to synchronize the camera with a variety of external equipment (e.g., pulsed lasers).
- Easily program complex, time-resolved experiments
High-speed GigE interface provides
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- Allows remote operation from up to 50m over standard gigabit cable or longer distanace with optional fiberoptic converters.
- Seamless plug-and-play connectivity with the latest desktops and laptops.
- True 16-bit data transfer at 2MHz, 5MHz and 10MHz readout speeds.

Powerful LightField software
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Powerful, oscilloscope like user interface provides easy triggering and gating control (Watch Video)
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Built-in math engine to analyze image and spectral data in real-time.
- Universal programming interface - PICAM (64 bit) - for easy custom programming.
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Seamless integration of hardware controls and direct data acquisition into National Instruments' LabVIEW and MathWorks' MATLAB.
PI-MAX4 camera model comparison and datasheets
Model | Imaging Array | Pixel Size | Wavelength | Peak QE |
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PI-MAX4: 512EMB ![]() |
512 x 512 EMCCD | 16.0 x 16.0 µm | 200 - 900 nm |
>25% Gen II |
PI-MAX4:1024EMB ![]() |
1024 x 1024 EMCCD | 13 x 13 µm | 200 - 900 nm |
>25% Gen II |
PI-MAX4:1024i ![]() |
1024 x 1024 | 12.8 x 12.8 µm | 200 - 900 nm |
>25% Gen II |
PI-MAX4:1024f ![]() |
1024 x 1024 | 13 x 13 µm | 200 - 900 nm |
>25% Gen II |
PI-MAX4:1024i-RF ![]() |
1024 x 1024 | 12.8 x 12.8 µm | 200 - 900 nm |
>25% Gen II |
PI-MAX4:1024x256 ![]() |
1024 x 256 | 26 x 26 µm | 200 - 900 nm |
>25% Gen II |
PI-MAX4:2048f ![]() |
2048 x 2048 | 13.5 x 13.5 µm | 200 - 900 nm |
>20% Gen II |
Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy
LIBS is considered one of the most convenient and efficient analytical techniques for trace elemental analysis in gases, solids, and liquids. LIBS spectra obtained by the Mars Curiosity Rover have confirmed that our sister planet could have harbored life
Singlet Oxygen Imaging
Singlet oxygen, the first excited state of molecular oxygen, is a highly reactive species that plays an important role in a wide range of biological processes, including cell signaling, immune response, macromolecule degradation, and elimination of neoplastic tissue during photodynamic therapy.
Combustion
Combustion researchers rely on laser-based optical diagnostic techniques as essential tools in understanding and improving the combustion process.
Nanotechnology
Nanotechnology helps scientists and engineers create faster electronics as well as ultrastrong and extremely light structural materials.
FLIM - Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging Microscopy
FLIM encompasses several techniques for mapping the spatial distribution of excited-state lifetimes of emitting molecular species with nanosecond and microsecond temporal resolution.
Dynamic Neutron Radiography
Neutron radiography offers an excellent complement to x-ray imaging for a diverse range of nondestructive investigations
Publications
Neuroscience, Bio/In vivo imaging, Life Science, emICCD, PI-MAX4, Second Harmonic Generation, Second Harmonic Imaging, Multiphoton Imaging
Ultrafast Imaging, Life Science, Plasma Physics&Monitoring, Drug Delivery, Plasma treatment
Single Photon Sources, Quantum Physics, Quantum Research, emICCD, Gated Imaging, Ultrafast Imaging, Coincidence Detection
emICCD, Gated Imaging, Ultrafast Imaging, Quantum Research, Coincidence Detection, Quantum Physics, Single Photon Sources
Understanding the physical chemistry involving OH radicals using sensitive emission spectroscopy
Sensitive measurements of failures in composites materials using LIBS.
Ultrafast gated spectroscopy for laboratory astrophysics.
Ultrafast detection using gated and streak camera approaches.
Ultrafast imaging of Plasmas
Sensitive in-vivo imaging using NIR-II/SWIR and gated cameras
PLIF imaging traces distribution of fuel during combustion ignition. Research to develop cleaner combustion processes.
Extension to widely used OH-LIF and PLIF measurements to use fs laser excitation for combustion and physical chemistry research.
Ultrafast Schlieren Imaging and emission spectroscopy in the lab giving insights into interstellar astronomy.
Pump probe spectroscopy using the optical Kerr effect investigating the physical chemistry of solutions.
PLIF, Laser induced incandescence and elastic laser scattering
Solar Cells/Photovoltaics, Perovskites, Time resolved fluorescence imaging, emICCD ps gating (480ps)
Life Science, Biochemistry, DNA repair, Pulse Radiolysis, Time Resolved Resonance Raman, Ultrafast Spectroscopy
Optical Emission Spectroscopy, Echelle spectroscopy, Plasma Physics&Monitoring, Thin Films
Accelerator Physics, Particle Detection, Ultrafast Imaging
Plasma Physics and Monitoring, Thin Films, Thomson Scattering, Ultrafast Imaging
Material Science, Laser Manufacturing, Ultrafast Imaging, X-Ray Imaging, DIF mode
HiPIMS - high-power impulse magentron sputtering, Plasma Physics&Monitoring, Ultrafast Imaging, Thin films
Spectroscopic characterization of plasma in a Tokamak experiment using UV to NIR techniques.
Time resolved PL and excitation PL measurements using an ICCD
Using PLIF and Chemiluminescence imaging, characterizing a flame reaction zone.
Ultrafast imaging improving plasma discharge for biomedicine
Monitor molecule species with PLIF in turbulent hot and cold flames
Chemistry, Life Science, Ultrafast Spectroscopy, CARS, InGaAs Intensifier
A combination of LIBS and LIF enhances sensitivity for Boron detection.
Time resolved PL spectroscopy reveals how to improve efficiency of photovoltaic devices.
Thin Films, Plasma Physics and Monitoring, Ultrafast Imaging, HiPIMS - high-power impulse magentron sputtering
Material Analysis, Optoelectronic Devices, GaAs Photovoltaics, FLIM, Time resolved PL Imaging, InGaAs Intensifier
PIMAX and DIF mode used for spectroscopy and high speed imaging experiments on plasma jets.
A PI-MAX4 is used to introduce Singlet Oxygen Feedback Delayed Fluorescence a new image technique for more sensitive detection of singlet oxygen with potential applications in cancer therapy.
Laser induced breakdown spectroscopy (LIBS) study on charcoal blast furnace slags. A 1064nm wavelength Nd:YAG laser is used to generate a plasma and a PI-MAX4 detects spectral signatures, measuring quantitative composition of Al, Ca, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, and Si.
Study of perovskite solar cells with enhanced stability. A PI-MAX4 is used for ns-scale, time-resolved photoluminescence measurements on the devices.
In this study, we developed and integrated experimental and multidimensional modeling techniques to access the temporal and spatial resolution of colliding plasma characteristics that elucidated the mechanism for early carbon dimer formation. Plume evolution imaging, monochromatic imaging, and optical emission spectroscopy of graphite-produced, carbon plasmas were performed.
Time dependpent PL spectroscopy from the ns to ms timescale, helping to optimize materials for solar cell and laser applications.
Time dependpent PL spectroscopy from the ns to ms timescale, helping to optimize materials for solar cell and laser applications.
Spontaneous rotational Raman scattering spectroscopy is used to acquire the first ever high quality, spatially-resolved measurements of the mean and root mean square (rms) temperature fluctuations in turbulent, high-velocity heated jets. Raman spectra in air were obtained across a matrix of radial and axial locations downstream from a 50 mm diameter nozzle operating from subsonic to supersonic conditions over a wide range of temperatures and Mach numbers, in accordance with the Tanna matrix frequently used in jet noise studies.
Ultrafast Imaging, Laser Induced Plasma, Spectral Bandpass Imaging, HDPE
A PI-MAX ICCD camera and an Acton SpectraPro 2750 spectrograph are utilized by researchers at Onera French Aerospace Lab and Universite Paris - Saclay.
PI-MAX4:1024f used in ESRF's multi-frame, high-resolution phase-contrast imaging of extreme physical behavior.
PI-MAX ICCD camera was used in this study, where researchers numerically and experimentally determined several combustion properties of three different shale gas mixtures.
OES - Optical Emission Spectroscopy, Plasma Physics and Monitoring, Thin Films, Ultrafast Spectroscopy
Researhers at Ecole Polytecnique - Sorbonne University and Moscow State University utilized a PI-MAX4 ICCD in their experimental setup.
Researchers at National Chiao Tung University, Hsinchu, Taiwan and National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan used a PI-MAX4 1024i in their experimental setup for this research.
PI-MAX4 1024f was used by Dr. Tomita and his team at Kyushu University in Japan in theiur experimental setup for their research on spatial profiles of electron density (ne) and electron temperature (Te) of laser-produced Sn plasmas for extreme-ultraviolet (EUV) light sources.
Frontiers in Optics 2015 Brian W. Pogue
... Luminescence was detected from the specimens by a gated intensified CCD camera (ICCD PI- MAX4, Princeton Instruments) with triggering from the LINAC output, gating the intensifier amplify only during the 3 us bursts of radiation, delivered at 200 Hz. ...
Researchers at Los Alamos Neutron Science Center (LANSCE), Los Alamos National Lab utlized the PI-MAX4 ICCD's very fast frame rates and picosecond gating capabilities in this recent research project.
Researchers from the Carnegie Institution of Washington have used a PIMAX4 emICCD and a PIXIS 400 BR in their research with diamond anvil cells.
Life Science, Cherenkov Imaging, Ultrafast Imaging, Radiation Therapy, emICCD
Application Notes
Cherenkov Emission Imaging and Spectroscopy Using a Pulsed Linear Accelerator and the Subsequent Deep-Tissue Imaging of Molecular Oxygen Sensors in a Human Body Phantom
In 2012, a research group at Dartmouth College and Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center led by Dr. Brian Pogue published results from their investigation into fluorescence and absorption spectroscopy methods using pulsed LINAC-induced CES2,5 under
ambient room lighting conditions.
This application note provides an overview of both that work as well as more recent experiments in which Dr. Pogue and his associates utilized Cherenkov radiation to perform
high-resolution luminescence imaging of molecular oxygen sensors located at tissue depthsup to 3 cm.
Scientific Cameras for Ultra-Low-Light Imaging in Quantum Research
09/23/2019 Technical Information about EMCCDs, emICCDs, and InGaAs Array Cameras
Ultrafast ICCD Cameras Enable New Three-Pulse Ballistic Imaging Technique for Studying Temporal Evolution of Turbulent, Steady Sprays
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology in Sweden demonstrated a threepulse configuration for time-gated ballistic imaging (BI) applied to a turbulent, steady spray; this technique, which utilizes a pair of ultrafast scientific ICCD cameras, permits the acquisition of time-correlated image data.
Novel Time-Resolved FLIM Measurements Method
Enabled by the New Picosecond Gating Technology of the PI-MAX®4 ICCD Camera and the RLD Processing Algorithm
Ultra-High-Sensitivity emICCD Cameras Enable Diamond Quantum Dynamics Research
The PI-MAX4:512EM emICCD camera…
deliver[s] quantitative, ultra-high-sensitivity performance for applications executed on nano- and picosecond timescales.
High-Accuracy LIBS with Nanosecond and Picosecond Time Resolution Enabled by Ultrasensitive emICCD Technology
This note explains how the improved performance of the PIMAX4:1024EMB emICCD camera used in concert with an echelle spectrometer (LTB ARYELLE 200) delivers ultrahigh sensitivity for demanding LIBS applications on the nanosecond and picosecond timescales.
Ultra-High-Sensitivity emICCD Cameras Facilitate Use of Trapped Ions for Quantum Research.
The PI-MAX4:1024EMB emICCD camera…
deliver[s] quantitative, ultra-high-sensitivity performance for applications executed on nano- and picosecond timescales.
< 500 Picosecond Gating Augments Studies of Atmospheric Pressure Plasma Jets
The application note provides an overview of non-thermal APPJ experimental setups for single-jet and multiple-jet studies in addition to the newest relevant imaging technology. Learn how this application was enabled by the PI-MAX 4: 1024i ICCD.
Ultra-High-Speed, Time-Resolved Spontaneous Raman Scattering Spectroscopy in Combustion
The recent use of a new diagnostic apparatus to measure the dynamics of each individual molecular species, as opposed to simply acquire bulk information (e.g., pressure), points to the possibility of performing temperature and frequency analyses of species in combustion.
Wide-Field, Frequency-Domain FLIM Measurements Made Simple
Learn more about how this application was enabled by the PI-MAX 4 1024i RF ICCD camera, allowing researchers to perform these wide-field measurements with unprecedented ease in terms of intensifier modulation and instrument synchronization, as well as with minimal external equipment.
Dynamic Neutron Radiography
Novel (3D) Neutron Imaging technique for nondestructive testing made possible by large-area, intensified CCD camera system
Cherenkov Emission Imaging and Spectroscopy Utilizing Isotopes and a Linear Accelerator
The inability to image Cherenkov radiation in a conventional radiation treatment environment where room light is on raises significant concern for patient and physician compliance; however, the intensified CCD (ICCD) camera system presented here offers a better solution.
Imaging of Shock-Induced Deformation in Condensed Matter
Ultrasensitive ICCD Camera Enables the Study of Rapidly Evolving Material Deformation in Extreme Environments
Using Planar Laser-Induced Fluorescence To Study Plasma Turbulence
The successful development and optimization of fusion power sources will depend largely upon learning more about plasma turbulence and its relation to transport.
Brochures
PI-MAX4 Brochure
Brochure with information on PI-MAX4 ICCD models and specifications.
Manuals
Product Manuals
Download operation manuals for Princeton Instruments cameras, spectrometers, and accessories from our ftp site.
Tech Notes
emICCD: The Ultimate in Scientific ICCD Technology
With the rapid expansion of research in areas such as nanotechnology, quantum computing, and combustion, the development of higher-performance time-gated cameras is becoming a necessity. This technical note describes the latest breakthrough in scientific intensified CCD (ICCD) technology: the world’s first emICCD.
Videos
News
Combustion Seminar Presented by Princeton Instruments
April 11, 2018FERGIE's First Visit to Beijing, China
October 14, 2016
IsoPlane Imaging Spectrographs
Award-winning imaging spectrographs with superior performance over Czerny-Turner traditional designs, available with 203 mm and 320 mm focal length designs.
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LightField Scientific Imaging & Spectroscopy Software
Ground breaking software to control your Princeton Instruments systems. Now with Windows 10 support. It's like nothing you have ever experienced!

SpectraPro 2150 Spectrometers
High value, dependable industry standard series of spectrographs and monochromators for a variety of applications.

GigE Fiber Optic Interface kit
Allows remote operation of GigE cameras from the host PC located up to 550 meters away.