AmScope MU Series 0.4MP USB 3.0 Monochrome Global-Shutter CMOS C-Mount Microscope Camera with Reduction Lens

SKU: MU043M-FL

Availability: In Stock

Regular price $767.99 $639.99

Key Features

  • An ultra-sensitive monochrome camera for low-light applications including fluorescence.
  • 7469mV sensitivity provides up to 520fps for extreme responsiveness.
  • Global-shutter sensor captures fast-moving subjects without the distortion seen in conventional sensors
  • Professional photomicrography software is included.
  • Includes calibration slide for on-screen measurements

Low-light Specialist

The MU043M-FL is designed specifically for extreme low-light applications. The cutting-edge global-shutter sensor takes quantum conversion to a whole new level. The monochrome sensor was designed for challenging tasks including deep-space imaging, so it's no surprise it provides an astonishing 7469mV photoelectric-conversion (1/30s, f/5.6). Not only that, but due to the lower resolution and increased sensitivity, maximum framerates up to 520fps can be achieved for incredibly responsive real-time previews*. All of this adds up to a camera born for fluorescence and dark-field applications, as well as applications involving photosensitive subjects. Due to the extreme sensitivity, this camera is not intended for high-output brightfield illumination.

*Preview framerate may not match the recorded framerate. Extreme framerates are dependent on the computer's processing power and recording media.

Sensitivity

An image sensor's sensitivity is one of the most important characteristics for low-light imaging. The ability to efficiently capture light with low noise levels allows the capture of faint signals, or to capture vivid images very quickly. The study of live specimens or other light-sensitive subjects can be difficult due to the amount of light needed to produce an image. One of the result is specimen bleaching, which shortens the subjects lifetime and limits the time available to study it. A highly sensitive sensor can reduce the amount of exposure, prolonging the viability of the specimen.

Photoelectric Conversion

Sensitivity: Extreme (7469mV)

The sensor's sensitivity is measured by the amount of photonic energy it is able to convert into electric potential during exposure. Using a standard of 1/30th of a second, this sensor can produce up to 7469mV measured with a lens with f/5.6 aperture. Higher efficiency in light-gathering and conversion means that less light is needed to produce a viable image.

Monochrome vs Color

Monochrome may seem antiquated in modern imaging, but it still holds relevance. All sensors are fundamentally monochrome, as a silicon substrate does not interpret color. Most color sensors use an array of red, green, and blue filters arranged in a Bayer pattern to filter out all but the intended wavelengths of light. The image is later demosaiced to produce a full-color image with each pixel borrowing color data from its neighbors. The resulting image can be extremely accurate depending on the demosaicing algorithm used.

The downside of using a Bayer (or other) filter array is that a lot of light is rejected at each pixel, resulting in longer exposures needed to achieve full well-capacity. If light is abundant, this is not much of a problem. But for low-light applications, every drop of light counts. Monochrome sensors do not use color filters, so they can capture more light per pixel in shorter durations.

Global Shutter Technology

One of the major benefits of CMOS technology in imaging sensors is the ability to read each pixel independently. This drastically cuts down the time required to capture an image, and reduces noise compared to CCD readout methods. The line-by-line "rolling shutter" readout method reads some lines of pixels while others are in the process of capturing, leading to distortion in subjects in motion, mostly noticeable in high-speed motion.

Global shutter to the rescue. Global shutter is a method of capturing and reading out an image which in some ways mimics CCD technology. The entire image is read out at the same time, avoiding potential continuity errors seen with rolling shutter. This is beneficial for capturing objects in motion, and produces a more accurate image.

Field of View

Using a 1/3-inch format sensor, this camera is best-used with a 1/3X reduction lens or 1/3X C-mount photo-ports. A 0.37X reduction lens for 23mm ports is included, along with 30mm and 30.5mm adapters. This maximizes the field-of-view captured by the camera.

Software

With software available for Windows, Mac, and Linux, this camera package is a multi-platform imaging solution. The included Windows software offers image-development and measurement tools, as well as advanced compositing features such as image-stitching and extended-depth-of-focus. A measurement calibration slide is included to properly calibrate the software's scale for use with the array of linear and geometric measurement tools. With the ability to calibrate scales at multiple magnifications, the software can be used for multi-level inspection. Independent preview and capture resolutions allow you to view high-speed video while simultaneously capturing high-definition images. For Mac and Linux, there is a lite version of the software which can capture video and still images, and includes limited processing features.

Specifications

Sensor Specifications
Model IMX287 (monochrome)
Sensor Type CMOS
Sensor Optical Format 1/3"
Active Pixels 0.39M (720 x 540)
Pixel Size 6.9µm x 6.9µm
Active Sensor Area 4.97mm x 3.73mm
Shutter global shutter
Sensitivity 7469mV (f5.6) @ 1/30s
3660mV (f8) @1/30s
Spectral Response 380-650nm with IR-cut filter
Other Camera Specifications
Video Capture Resolution 720 x 540
Video Framerate 520fps maximum*
*Maximum preview framerate may exceed capture framerate. Extreme framerates are dependent on the computer's processing power and recording media.
Photo Capture Resolution 1920 x 1080
Connectivity USB 3.0
Lens-mount C-mount
Compensating Lens 0.37X
Power 5VDC over USB
Operating Temperature -10-50°C
Operating Humidity 30-80%

Software

OS Requirements Windows (32/64 bit) XP/Vista/7/8/10, Mac OS 10.8+, Linux kernel 3.13+
Hardware Requirements Intel Core2 2.8GHz or comparable processor, 4GB RAM
Features
Windows Version
Live video preview
Captures still images and video
Time-lapse capture
Exposure and white-balance controls
Dark-field correction
Digital binning
Image processing
Measurement tools, including lines, arcs, polygons
Segmentation and counting tools
Image-stitching, extended depth-of-field, HDR
Fluorescence color-mapping
Mac/Linux Versions
Live video preview
Captures still images and video
Exposure control
Color adjustment
Measurement tools, including lines, arcs, polygons

Contents:

  • One 0.4MP USB3.0 digital camera
  • One 0.37X reduction lens
  • One 6' (1.8m) USB cable
  • One CD with software and instructions
  • application Camera-Brightfield, Camera-Darkfield, Camera-Fluorescence
    camera application PC & Mac Display
    camera connectivity USB 3.0
    camera mounting size C-Mount
    camera reduction lens 0.3X
    camera sensor CMOS
    camera type Brightfield, Darkfield, Fluorescence
    compatibility PC & Mac
    Manufacturer AmScope
    mounting size Camera-C-Mount
    product condition NEW
    product contents

    Packing List:

  • One 14MP USB3.0 Digital Camera
  • One Reduction Lens
  • One 6' (1.8m) USB Cable
  • Two Adapters: 30mm and 30.5mm
  • One CD with Software and User's Instructions
  • Shipping Weight: 3 lbs
  • prop 65 Prop 65 Warning
    sensor Camera-CMOS

    TPG

    Enhance your microscopy experience by downloading the essential software for your microscope cameras. This software provides advanced features such as image capture, measurement tools, and editing capabilities, allowing you to maximize the potential of your microscope. Compatible with various camera models, it ensures seamless integration and optimal performance. Please use the software attached below to download the software and unlock the full capabilities of your microscope camera today.View our software licensing terms.

    Operating System Software
    Windows v.10.11.2024
    MAC AmScopeAmLite_20240408.dmg
    SDK TPG SDK (Optional) v.03.11.2024
    Linux AmScopeAmLite_x64_x84_20231115.tar

    AmScope products are warranted against manufacturer’s defects in material and workmanship from the original date of purchase, for the following years: 


    • Five Year Warranty for Microscopes: All our microscopes come with a five (5) year factory warranty against manufacturing defects, covering labor and parts. 
    • Ten Year Warranty for Euromex Microscopes: All our Euromex microscopes come with a ten (10) year factory warranty against manufacturing defects, covering labor and parts.
    • One Year Warranty for Telescopes: All our telescopes come with a one (1) year warranty, except when specified in the description. 
    • One Year Warranty for Accessories: All our microscope accessories (USB cameras, illuminators, illumination, dust covers, and etc.) come with a one (1) year warranty, except when specified in the description.
    • One Year Warranty for Items labeled as “Product Ships From Manufacturer”: All products that are shipped directly from the manufacturer come with a one (1) year warranty, except when specified in the description. 

    Warranty does not apply for consumable accessories and parts such as bulbs, batteries, fuses, cords, optical components or any add-on accessories such as mechanical specimen holders that are not built into the microscope stage as an integral part of the original manufacture, etc. Warranty does not cover microscopes, lenses cameras or other accessories that have become inoperable due to dirt or damage due to misuse or lack of maintenance. 

    Note: Buyers are responsible for return shipping and handling cost for warranty services. Our warranty covers parts and labor only.

    Low-light Specialist

    The MU043M-FL is designed specifically for extreme low-light applications. The cutting-edge global-shutter sensor takes quantum conversion to a whole new level. The monochrome sensor was designed for challenging tasks including deep-space imaging, so it's no surprise it provides an astonishing 7469mV photoelectric-conversion (1/30s, f/5.6). Not only that, but due to the lower resolution and increased sensitivity, maximum framerates up to 520fps can be achieved for incredibly responsive real-time previews*. All of this adds up to a camera born for fluorescence and dark-field applications, as well as applications involving photosensitive subjects. Due to the extreme sensitivity, this camera is not intended for high-output brightfield illumination.

    *Preview framerate may not match the recorded framerate. Extreme framerates are dependent on the computer's processing power and recording media.

    Sensitivity

    An image sensor's sensitivity is one of the most important characteristics for low-light imaging. The ability to efficiently capture light with low noise levels allows the capture of faint signals, or to capture vivid images very quickly. The study of live specimens or other light-sensitive subjects can be difficult due to the amount of light needed to produce an image. One of the result is specimen bleaching, which shortens the subjects lifetime and limits the time available to study it. A highly sensitive sensor can reduce the amount of exposure, prolonging the viability of the specimen.

    Photoelectric Conversion

    Sensitivity: Extreme (7469mV)

    The sensor's sensitivity is measured by the amount of photonic energy it is able to convert into electric potential during exposure. Using a standard of 1/30th of a second, this sensor can produce up to 7469mV measured with a lens with f/5.6 aperture. Higher efficiency in light-gathering and conversion means that less light is needed to produce a viable image.

    Monochrome vs Color

    Monochrome may seem antiquated in modern imaging, but it still holds relevance. All sensors are fundamentally monochrome, as a silicon substrate does not interpret color. Most color sensors use an array of red, green, and blue filters arranged in a Bayer pattern to filter out all but the intended wavelengths of light. The image is later demosaiced to produce a full-color image with each pixel borrowing color data from its neighbors. The resulting image can be extremely accurate depending on the demosaicing algorithm used.

    The downside of using a Bayer (or other) filter array is that a lot of light is rejected at each pixel, resulting in longer exposures needed to achieve full well-capacity. If light is abundant, this is not much of a problem. But for low-light applications, every drop of light counts. Monochrome sensors do not use color filters, so they can capture more light per pixel in shorter durations.

    Global Shutter Technology

    One of the major benefits of CMOS technology in imaging sensors is the ability to read each pixel independently. This drastically cuts down the time required to capture an image, and reduces noise compared to CCD readout methods. The line-by-line "rolling shutter" readout method reads some lines of pixels while others are in the process of capturing, leading to distortion in subjects in motion, mostly noticeable in high-speed motion.

    Global shutter to the rescue. Global shutter is a method of capturing and reading out an image which in some ways mimics CCD technology. The entire image is read out at the same time, avoiding potential continuity errors seen with rolling shutter. This is beneficial for capturing objects in motion, and produces a more accurate image.

    Field of View

    Using a 1/3-inch format sensor, this camera is best-used with a 1/3X reduction lens or 1/3X C-mount photo-ports. A 0.37X reduction lens for 23mm ports is included, along with 30mm and 30.5mm adapters. This maximizes the field-of-view captured by the camera.

    Software

    With software available for Windows, Mac, and Linux, this camera package is a multi-platform imaging solution. The included Windows software offers image-development and measurement tools, as well as advanced compositing features such as image-stitching and extended-depth-of-focus. A measurement calibration slide is included to properly calibrate the software's scale for use with the array of linear and geometric measurement tools. With the ability to calibrate scales at multiple magnifications, the software can be used for multi-level inspection. Independent preview and capture resolutions allow you to view high-speed video while simultaneously capturing high-definition images. For Mac and Linux, there is a lite version of the software which can capture video and still images, and includes limited processing features.

    Specifications

    Sensor Specifications
    Model IMX287 (monochrome)
    Sensor Type CMOS
    Sensor Optical Format 1/3"
    Active Pixels 0.39M (720 x 540)
    Pixel Size 6.9µm x 6.9µm
    Active Sensor Area 4.97mm x 3.73mm
    Shutter global shutter
    Sensitivity 7469mV (f5.6) @ 1/30s
    3660mV (f8) @1/30s
    Spectral Response 380-650nm with IR-cut filter
    Other Camera Specifications
    Video Capture Resolution 720 x 540
    Video Framerate 520fps maximum*
    *Maximum preview framerate may exceed capture framerate. Extreme framerates are dependent on the computer's processing power and recording media.
    Photo Capture Resolution 1920 x 1080
    Connectivity USB 3.0
    Lens-mount C-mount
    Compensating Lens 0.37X
    Power 5VDC over USB
    Operating Temperature -10-50°C
    Operating Humidity 30-80%

    Software

    OS Requirements Windows (32/64 bit) XP/Vista/7/8/10, Mac OS 10.8+, Linux kernel 3.13+
    Hardware Requirements Intel Core2 2.8GHz or comparable processor, 4GB RAM
    Features
    Windows Version
    Live video preview
    Captures still images and video
    Time-lapse capture
    Exposure and white-balance controls
    Dark-field correction
    Digital binning
    Image processing
    Measurement tools, including lines, arcs, polygons
    Segmentation and counting tools
    Image-stitching, extended depth-of-field, HDR
    Fluorescence color-mapping
    Mac/Linux Versions
    Live video preview
    Captures still images and video
    Exposure control
    Color adjustment
    Measurement tools, including lines, arcs, polygons

    Contents:

  • One 0.4MP USB3.0 digital camera
  • One 0.37X reduction lens
  • One 6' (1.8m) USB cable
  • One CD with software and instructions