HiCATT image intensifier
HiCATT image intensifier
HiCATT attached to high-speed camera
HiCATT w Lens 6
HiCATT image intensifier
HiCATT | Ultra High Speed Intensifier - Image 2
HiCATT | Ultra High Speed Intensifier - Image 3
HiCATT image intensifier

HiCATT | Ultra High Speed Intensifier

Number of Stages

2

Tube Size

18 or 25 mm

Max Rep Rate

Up to 1 MHz continuous and 10 MHz in burst mode

Shortest Gate duration

As short as 3 ns

Spectral sensitivity

Photocathode-dependent: From UV (Gen II) to NIR (Gen III)

Phosphors

P46 or P47

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HiCATT – Ultra High Speed Intensifier reaching 1,000,000 fps and above

The HiCATT is a high-speed intensifier engineered to work with high-speed and ultra-high-speed cameras (1 MHz and above). It amplifies low light level images by up to 500,000 times, depending on the intensifier tube and wavelength. This enhancement increases the sensitivity of the connected high-speed camera, allowing it to capture clear images in low-light conditions.

Reach higher frame rates, image faster

The below video demonstrates a blue flame emerging from a torch, captured without and with the HiCATT attached to a Vision Research TMX 7150 at 200,000 fps. The image quality at 200,000 fps is significantly improved when using the HiCATT. The 1 MHz version of the HiCATT enables imaging at 1,000,000 fps and above (burst mode).

high speed combustion imaging with and with hicatt intensifier

Make your camera sensitive to UV light, and image combustion 

All high-speed cameras are insensitive to UV light because their optical components block UV light from reaching the detector. The HiCATT can convert incoming UV light into visible light at 532 nm, making it detectable by the camera. The following video shows the same flame observed with an OH filter (10 nm bandpass centered around 310 nm) at 100,000 fps. The natural emission of the flame at atmospheric pressure and through the filter emits very low light levels. Despite these conditions, the video demonstrates a satisfactory signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and image quality. This recording was performed at Axiom Optics Lab in Somerville, MA, USA, using a HiCATT Gen2 1 MHz coupled to a Vision Research TMX 7150 at 100,000 fps, with a 100 mm CERCO UV lens.

High Speed OH Imaging with HiCATT
OH imaging at 100 khz, at 310 nm with HICATT

HiCATT Couples to All High-Speed Cameras, Without Special Couplings or Customizations

One of the standout features of the HiCATT high-speed intensifier is its remarkable ability to effortlessly adapt its output focus to any camera and imaging system. This adaptability ensures that the HiCATT delivers sharp, high-quality images across a range of configurations.

The HiCATT high-speed intensifier is designed for seamless integration with all major brand-name high-speed cameras, including Shimadzu, Phantom, Photron, iX Cameras, etc. This is accomplished by the high-quality, robust, and flexible lens coupling on the output. The adaptability of the lens output adjustment results in a coupling without any modifications to the camera. It can be used as is. Whether you’re using a camera equipped with an F-Mount or another compatible configuration, integrating the HiCATT intensifier is a straightforward process.

A versatile and customizable high speed intensifier

The HiCATT can be attached to all major high-speed camera brands using a high-quality, high numerical aperture (NA) lens coupling. It features a hybrid image intensifier composed of two stages and is available with a diameter of either 25 mm or 18 mm. The first stage is a Gen II or Gen III proximity-focused microchannel plate (MCP) intensifier, offering very high and adjustable gain. The second stage is a proximity-focused Gen I booster, which provides the extra high output brightness necessary for imaging at high frame rates. In its gating mode, the first stage operates as a fast electro-optical shutter, enabling effective exposure times down to the nanosecond range.

The ultra-high-speed intensifier can operate at repetition rates of up to 1 MHz in continuous mode and 10 MHz in burst mode. Various intensifier control units offer functionalities from analog gain control to full digital control, including an internal trigger generator and programmable gate trains. With a broad selection of Gen II and Gen III image intensifiers, the HiCATT provides high sensitivity down to the single-photon level and the optimal spectral bandwidth for diverse applications. Different models are available, covering a range of spectral sensitivities, phosphors, spatial resolutions, gains, linearities, minimum gate widths, and gating frequencies. Standard models of the HiCATT feature a single MCP in the first-stage image intensifier, with dual MCP image intensifiers available upon request.

High quality UV lenses from CERCO

Axiom Optics offers three uv lenses with 28, 45, and 100 mm focal length from CERCO that have been designed for video cameras with image intensifier working with UV light. These UV lenses are usable from ultraviolet to near infrared without focusing adjustment. Two types are proposed: standard multicoated type, optimized from 240 nm to 410 nm wavelength range, and uncoated type, usable from 190 nm to 900 nm. The 100 mm focal length was specifically designed for 25 mm images and therefore is a perfect match for the HICATT 25. Visit our CERCO product page for more information on these lenses. 

Image intensifier layout

Image intensifier layout

When the HiCATT is mounted to a lens or microscope, the incoming light (a) is focused onto the entrance window of the image intensifier (b). The image intensifier converts the optical image into electrons at the photocathode, amplifies this electron image using the micro-channel plate (MCP), and then reconverts the electrons into photons at the anode screen. The second image intensifier (booster, c) further amplifies the signal. At the output of the hybrid intensifier, a relay objective (d) is mounted, with magnification tailored to match the intensifier to the high-speed camera sensor (e).

For time-resolved imaging, a gate unit (f) is used together with the image intensifier to yield an electro-optical shutter. The gate unit either generates a high voltage pulse signal or follows an external TTL pulse. The pulse width is variable and follows a TTL input pulse over the range from less than 3 ns to DC at a repetition rate up to 300 kHz.

Spectral response and phosphor decay time

spectral response and phospor decay time

Phosphor Efficiency Decay time to 10% Decay time to 1%
P43 (optional) 20 photons/e-/kV 1.5 ms 3 ms
P46 (standard) 6 photons/e-/kV 500 ns 2000 ns

**P20, P24 and P47 available on request

High Speed Intensifier Working Principle

high speed intensifier working principle

On the photocathode (1), incoming photons are converted into electrons. These electrons are then accelerated in an electric field toward the Multi-Channel Plate (MCP, 2) and collide with the channel walls. Depending on the voltage across the channel, this collision generates multiple electrons through secondary emission. This cloud of electrons is accelerated toward the anode screen (3), where they are reconverted into photons by the phosphor layer. These photons are directed by a fiberoptic faceplate (3) to the entrance of the second stage (booster). In the second stage, photons are again converted to electrons by the photocathode (4) and accelerated to the anode screen (5), where the image is produced. Finally, the relay lens (6) transfers the image from the back of the intensifier onto the mounted camera.

Lambert mechanical shutter

The Lambert Instruments shutter attachment is an optional accessory for the HiCAM, HiCATT, and TRiCATT intensified products. It protects the image intensifier from damage caused by stray light, laser bundles, and other potential hazards during the alignment of the light source. The shutter can also be closed between measurements to extend the lifespan of the image intensifier. Encased in an aluminum housing, the shutter features a standard F-mount input, replacing the original F-mount adapter without altering the back focal distance, allowing any F-mount objective to be used. The shutter comes with a controller equipped with a timer that can automatically close the shutter after a set duration, displayed on a large LED screen. Additionally, the shutter can be controlled by an external TTL signal.

Read our important technical blog posts about the HICATT

 

HiCATT – Ultra High Speed Intensifier reaching 1,000,000 fps and above

The HiCATT is a high-speed intensifier engineered to work with high-speed and ultra-high-speed cameras (1 MHz and above). It amplifies low light level images by up to 500,000 times, depending on the intensifier tube and wavelength. This enhancement increases the sensitivity of the connected high-speed camera, allowing it to capture clear images in low-light conditions.

Reach higher frame rates, image faster

The below video demonstrates a blue flame emerging from a torch, captured without and with the HiCATT attached to a Vision Research TMX 7150 at 200,000 fps. The image quality at 200,000 fps is significantly improved when using the HiCATT. The 1 MHz version of the HiCATT enables imaging at 1,000,000 fps and above (burst mode).

high speed combustion imaging with and with hicatt intensifier

Make your Camera Sensitive to UV light, and Image Combustion 

All high-speed cameras are insensitive to UV light because their optical components block UV light from reaching the detector. The HiCATT can convert incoming UV light into visible light at 532 nm, making it detectable by the camera. The following video shows the same flame observed with an OH filter (10 nm bandpass centered around 310 nm) at 100,000 fps. The natural emission of the flame at atmospheric pressure and through the filter emits very low light levels. Despite these conditions, the video demonstrates a satisfactory signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and image quality. This recording was performed at Axiom Optics Lab in Somerville, MA, USA, using a HiCATT Gen2 1 MHz coupled to a Vision Research TMX 7150 at 100,000 fps, with a 100 mm CERCO UV lens.

High Speed OH Imaging with HiCATT
OH imaging at 100 khz, at 310 nm with HICATT

HiCATT Couples to All High-Speed Cameras, Without Special Couplings or Customizations

One of the standout features of the HiCATT high-speed intensifier is its remarkable ability to effortlessly adapt its output focus to any camera and imaging system. This adaptability ensures that the HiCATT delivers sharp, high-quality images across a range of configurations.

The HiCATT high-speed intensifier is designed for seamless integration with all major brand-name high-speed cameras, including Shimadzu, Phantom, Photron, iX Cameras, etc. This is accomplished by the high-quality, robust, and flexible lens coupling on the output. The adaptability of the lens output adjustment results in a coupling without any modifications to the camera. It can be used as is. Whether you’re using a camera equipped with an F-Mount or another compatible configuration, integrating the HiCATT intensifier is a straightforward process.

A Versatile and Customizable High Speed Intensifier

The HiCATT can be attached to all major high-speed camera brands using a high-quality, high numerical aperture (NA) lens coupling. It features a hybrid image intensifier composed of two stages and is available with a diameter of either 25 mm or 18 mm. The first stage is a Gen II or Gen III proximity-focused microchannel plate (MCP) intensifier, offering very high and adjustable gain. The second stage is a proximity-focused Gen I booster, which provides the extra high output brightness necessary for imaging at high frame rates. In its gating mode, the first stage operates as a fast electro-optical shutter, enabling effective exposure times down to the nanosecond range.

The ultra-high-speed intensifier can operate at repetition rates of up to 1 MHz in continuous mode and 10 MHz in burst mode. Various intensifier control units offer functionalities from analog gain control to full digital control, including an internal trigger generator and programmable gate trains. With a broad selection of Gen II and Gen III image intensifiers, the HiCATT provides high sensitivity down to the single-photon level and the optimal spectral bandwidth for diverse applications. Different models are available, covering a range of spectral sensitivities, phosphors, spatial resolutions, gains, linearities, minimum gate widths, and gating frequencies. Standard models of the HiCATT feature a single MCP in the first-stage image intensifier, with dual MCP image intensifiers available upon request.

High Quality UV lenses from CERCO

HiCATT with Cerco lens

Axiom Optics offers three uv lenses with 28, 45, and 100 mm focal length from CERCO that have been designed for video cameras with image intensifier working with UV light. These UV lenses are usable from ultraviolet to near infrared without focusing adjustment. Two types are proposed: standard multicoated type, optimized from 240 nm to 410 nm wavelength range, and uncoated type, usable from 190 nm to 900 nm. The 100 mm focal length was specifically designed for 25 mm images and therefore is a perfect match for the HICATT 25. Visit the downloads tab for more information on these lenses. 

Image Intensifier Layout

Hicatt Image intensifier layout

When the HiCATT is mounted to a lens or microscope, the incoming light (a) is focused onto the entrance window of the image intensifier (b). The image intensifier converts the optical image into electrons at the photocathode, amplifies this electron image using the micro-channel plate (MCP), and then reconverts the electrons into photons at the anode screen. The second image intensifier (booster, c) further amplifies the signal. At the output of the hybrid intensifier, a relay objective (d) is mounted, with magnification tailored to match the intensifier to the high-speed camera sensor (e).

For time-resolved imaging, a gate unit (f) is used together with the image intensifier to yield an electro-optical shutter. The gate unit either generates a high voltage pulse signal or follows an external TTL pulse. The pulse width is variable and follows a TTL input pulse over the range from less than 3 ns to DC at a repetition rate up to 300 kHz.

Spectral response and phosphor decay time

spectral response and phospor decay time

Phosphor Efficiency Decay time to 10% Decay time to 1%
P43 (optional) 20 photons/e-/kV 1.5 ms 3 ms
P46 (standard) 6 photons/e-/kV 500 ns 2000 ns

**P20, P24 and P47 available on request

High Speed Intensifier working principle

high speed intensifier working principle

On the photocathode (1), incoming photons are converted into electrons. These electrons are then accelerated in an electric field toward the Multi-Channel Plate (MCP, 2) and collide with the channel walls. Depending on the voltage across the channel, this collision generates multiple electrons through secondary emission. This cloud of electrons is accelerated toward the anode screen (3), where they are reconverted into photons by the phosphor layer. These photons are directed by a fiberoptic faceplate (3) to the entrance of the second stage (booster). In the second stage, photons are again converted to electrons by the photocathode (4) and accelerated to the anode screen (5), where the image is produced. Finally, the relay lens (6) transfers the image from the back of the intensifier onto the mounted camera.

Lambert mechanical shutter

The Lambert Instruments shutter attachment is an optional accessory for the HiCAM, HiCATT, and TRiCATT intensified products. It protects the image intensifier from damage caused by stray light, laser bundles, and other potential hazards during the alignment of the light source. The shutter can also be closed between measurements to extend the lifespan of the image intensifier. Encased in an aluminum housing, the shutter features a standard F-mount input, replacing the original F-mount adapter without altering the back focal distance, allowing any F-mount objective to be used. The shutter comes with a controller equipped with a timer that can automatically close the shutter after a set duration, displayed on a large LED screen. Additionally, the shutter can be controlled by an external TTL signal.

Read our important technical blog posts about the HICATT

To access our intensified imaging product page, click here.

To visit Lambert Instrument’s (the manufacturer) page, click here.

Photocathodes

The photocathode is the entrance of the image intensifier. This is where the incoming photons are converted to electrons. The quantum efficiency of the photocathode material specifies how efficient this conversion is for each wavelength.

Second generation image intensifiers

The photocathode of a second generation image intensifier can have a quantum efficiency of up to 25%.S25 photocathodes are only available in the 18 mm diameter image intensifiers.

quantum efficiency of photocathode of a second generation image intensifier
Typical QE

Second generation high QE image intensifiers

The photocathode of a second generation high QE image intensifier can have a quantum efficiency of over 30%. Please note that these image intensifiers are only available with a diameter of 18 mm.

quantum efficiency of a photocathode of a second generation image intensifier
Typical QE, 200 ns gate width

Second generation fast-gated high QE image intensifiers

The photocathode of a second generation high QE image intensifier can have a quantum efficiency of over 25%. Please note that these image intensifiers are only available with a diameter of 18 mm.

quantum efficiency of a photocathode of a second generation high QE image intensifier
Typical QE, 3 ns gate width

Third generation image intensifiers

The photocathode of a third generation image intensifier can have a quantum efficiency of up to 50%.

quantum efficiency of photocathode of a third generation image intensifier
Typical QE

High Speed Combustion Imaging

high speed combustion imaging

Researchers around the world use the HiCATT in their combustion studies involving OH* laser-induced fluorescence (LIF) and chemiluminescence. To avoid motion blur and see the detailed structures, a very short exposure time is required. This reduces the light intensity that is detected during each exposure. The HiCATT boosts the light intensity to ensure clear images at high frame rates.

high speed imaging of a blue gas flame using HiCATT

The images on the left show three recordings of a blue gas flame. Image A is a regular recording that shows the general shape of the blue gas flame. But the details are lost due to the long exposure time.

Image B was recorded with a high-speed camera (1000 fps, 1 millisecond exposure time) to reduce motion blur. The image is dim and blurry, but it shows less motion blur than image A.

Image C shows what a flame looks like at 2000 fps with a 15 microsecond exposure time. The HiCATT eliminates motion blur while boosting the intensity of the incoming light to retain image detail.

Other applications

  • Super-slow motion combustion research for the automotive industry
  • Time-resolved imaging in plasma physics research
  • Dynamic phenomena in microscopy
  • Laser-Induced Fluorescence (LIF) and especially PLIF ( Planar Laser Induced Fluorescence )
  • Time-resolved imaging of fluids for microfluidic research
  • Fluorescence Recovery After Photobleaching (FRAP)
  • Many other industrial or scientific low-light-level applications in high-speed imaging

HiCATT Datasheet

CERCO 28 mm UV Lens Data Sheet

CERCO 45 mm UV Lens Data Sheet

CERCO 100 mm UV Lens Data Sheet

Publications using HiCATT

Intensifier Control Software

The small window size of the Intensifier Control software (shown below), easily allows you to use this software and any image capture and control software of an attached camera simultaneously. The main window (left) of the software shows the most used functions during normal operation. The settings window (right) is used to set the trigger method and configure the function for the Enable connector of the Intensifier gate generator.

Hicatt Image Capture Software

Capture Software

Capture makes intensified high speed imaging easy! Capture is a unique software that controls and acquires recordings from one or multiple (up to 9) streaming intensified high speed cameras (HICATT intensifier + Streaming Camera + Frame grabber.) It is compatible with the popular S series of Vision Research streaming cameras for example, as well as Silicon Software, Euresys and Pleora frame grabbers. With Capture, you can trigger a recording at just the right moment with Trigger Offset, trim your recordings, and export your videos in a variety of widely-supported file formats.
Capture software

HiCATT Options

  • Diameter : 18 or 25 mm
  • Phosphors ( P46, P47)
  • Photocathodes (S20 UV, S20, S25, Hi-QE Green, Hi-QE Blue, Hi-QE Red, GaAs, GaAsP, red enhanced GaAsP)
  • Relay optics ( 1:1, 2:1, 3:1)
  • Gating units ( 40 ns @ 100 KHz,  2 ns@ 300 Khz, 25 ns @ 1 MHz )
  • Intensifier USB  control units ( gain control DG, gate control GC, gate generator GG, programmable gate GG-PP)

HiCATT Accessories

  • Mounting Plate
  • C-Mount and F-Mount Adapters
  • Interchangeable relay lenses
  • Mechanical Shutter with interlock for extra intensifier tube safety
  • High Speed Cameras
Spectral Range

UV (200 – 400 nm), VIS (400 – 750 nm)
Applications

Life Science, Physics
Manufacturer

Lambert Instruments
Frame Rate

> 1,000 fps
Interface

USB

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