Photonis Defense is a world leader in the design and manufacture of powerful image intensifier tubes and night vision systems
Cricket™2 offers plug and play intensified imaging or single photon counting functionality. Recognized for best value, Cricket™2 sets an unmatched standard for connectivity with scientific microscopes and cameras.
The Cricket™2 is a plug & play camera attachment enabling low light level imaging an
extreme high shutter speeds for CMOS and CCD cameras. The Cricket™2 fitted with a
Single MCP (Micro Channel Plate) based IIT (Image Intensifier Tube) enables an all
in one camera upgrade for high resolution, low light level imaging. By straight
forward C-Mount attachment and USB power supply, the Cricket™2 offers an unmatched
standard for connectivity.
High speed gating down to 3ns for time-domain imaging using the photocathode as electro-optical
shutter. High repetition rate up to 300 kHz and 2.5 MHz in burst mode. Cricket™2 is an all
in one solution with integrated optics and electronics.
Detailed datasheets, brochures and other reference materials are available upon request.
REQUEST FOR INFORMATION| Mechanical connections | |
| Lens mount interface | c-mount |
| Camera mount interface | c-mount |
| Electrical connections | |
| PSU | Micro-Usb(100mW @ 5 Volt) |
| Gating (Optional) | SMA Connector (50 Ω) |
| Mechanical specifications | |
| Housing material | Aluminium (Black anodized) |
| Housing dimension (HxWxL) | 95x58x112 |
| Weight | 450 grams |
| Optical specifications | |
| 2/3" Sensor format | 4:3 aspect ratio |
| 1/1.2" Sensor format | 16:10 aspect ratio |
| Magnification | 1:1 |
Cricket™2 typical application example
The c-mount in and c-mount out mounting enables easy coupling of a wide range of optics, cameras and
microscopes. Optionally a c-mount to f-mount adapter can be applied to attach devices fitted with a f-mount.
In order to configure the right Cricket™2 Image Intensifier Tube matching your application, please consider the following key Image Intensifier parts:
Select a photocathode matching the spectral region of interest of the phenomena you want observe.
Choose a Photonis SolarBlind, Broadband or Hi-QE photocathodes, and make your camera sensitive in
the UV, VIS or NIR (120-900nm).
Photocathode overview:
The single MCP setup with Hi-CE technology ensures a resolution of up to
64 lp/mm and a collection efficiency exceeding 90%. Choose the high dynamic range MCP option for
high linearity.
MCP linearity:
For time resolved imaging the photocathode can be used as an electro-optical shutter. Choose between the normal gating or fast gating option. A gate unit is integrated in the Cricket™2. Repetition rate up to 300 kHz and 2.5 MHz in burst mode.
Depending on imaging speed, choose the P43 phosphor for high efficiency
and frame rates up to 1000 frames per second or the P46 phosphor for up to 4000 frames per
second.
Phosphor spectral response:
Cricket™2 typical application example
The Mantis³ consists of a Timepix3-based visible light camera coupled to a Cricket™2 containing
one of Photonis’ high-end image intensifier tubes. The TPX3Cam* is a high-rate, event-driven,
time-stamping camera. The coupled image intensifier enables single photon sensitivity and
offers a choice of low noise photocathodes optimized for your application.
