Kepler KL400 Back-illuminated Scientific CMOS Camera Grade 2
AED 68,600.00 – AED 79,500.00
- Ultra-high sensitivity
- 95% Quantum Efficiency (QE)
- High frame rates
- Ideal for astrophotography, medical imaging, and scientific applications
- Optional accessories: 45mm shutter, Anti-dew technology, Liquid cooling
Description
Are you looking to buy camera for astrophotography? Or do you need exceptional precision, sensitivity, and durability for your scientific or industrial imaging applications? We offer high performance FLI Kepler series cameras to meet all your advanced imaging needs.
Kepler KL400 BI sCMOS Camera
The Kepler KL400 sCMOS cooled camera, with 95% quantum efficiency and a 1.5 e⁻ read noise, is among the most sensitive cameras available. Alongside the KL4040 model, it was introduced in 2018 as part of FLI’s Kepler series, available in both back-illuminated (BI) and front-illuminated (FI) formats. Known for ultra-high sensitivity, low noise, and fast frame rates, the KL400 delivers superb performance, even at high frame rates. Having all these advanced features, you can buy a KL400 BI camera at a ground-breaking price-to-performance ratio for a wide range of applications where precision, high sensitivity, and low-noise imaging are of the highest importance. Astrophotography, orbital debris detection, photometry, and photocell inspection are among the most important applications of this camera.
LDR vs. HDR Operational Modes
In Low Dynamic Range (LDR) mode, KL400 captures the image with a single read and digitizes it to 12-bits, suitable when high frame rates (above 24 fps) are needed. In High Dynamic Range (HDR) mode, the camera reads each pixel twice. The two images are then merged to create a 16-bit output with the linearity of a single exposure. This results in capturing details in both low and high signal areas. However, this dual reading comes at the cost of a reduction in the maximum frame rate to half compared to LDR mode.
GSense400BSI G1 Sensor
At the heart of the Kepler KL400 BI G1 is the GSense400BSI G1 sensor, a 2k x 2k high-performance back-illuminated CMOS sensor of grade 1 from Gpixel, specifically designed for critical scientific applications. In HDR mode, the sensor provides a 94 dB dynamic range at 24 fps. Lowering the dynamic range to 65 dB, allows the frame rates of 48 fps in LDR mode. Thanks to the backside thinning technology, 1.3 e⁻ read noise floor, low dark current, and 95% maximum QE, this sensor is extraordinarily sensitive, making it perfect for long-exposure imaging of faint objects such as nebulae. Its 22.5mm x 22.5mm photosensitive area is also ideally suited for high-throughput biological sample imaging, offering high precision and performance.
Sensor Quality
The KL400 BI G1 uses a Grade 1 sensor, which has minimal defective pixels, making it a superior choice for low-light imaging, such as in astrophotography or scientific and industrial imaging. Overall, the Kepler KL400 BI G1 stands out as one of the most sensitive cameras available.
| Properties | Grade 0 | Grade 1 | Grade 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Total Defective Pixel |
800 |
1200 |
2000 |
|
Defective Columns/Rows |
2 |
6 |
10 |
|
2 Adjacent Columns/Rows |
0. |
Allowed |
Allowed |
|
3 Adjacent Columns/Rows |
0. |
0. |
Allowed |
16-bit Dynamic Range
Kepler cameras achieve maximum frame rate when performing a 12-bit single read. However, a full 16-bit dynamic range can be achieved by reading the image twice at different gain levels, and merging the two images using FLI’s exclusive algorithms. This ensures highly linear HDR images for precise quantitative analysis.
Optional QSFP Fiber Interface
While the standard USB 3.0 interface provides reliable, high-speed connectivity, the optional QSFP fiber interface supports higher data throughput, long-distance connections, and electrical isolation, making the Kepler cameras even more versatile.
Reliability and Longevity
The Kepler KL400 camera is engineered to last, even in the most remote environments. Thanks to its unique chamber design, regular maintenance, such as desiccant replacement, is not required. This design ensures long-term performance in extreme conditions like remote observatories.
Support and Service
The Kepler Cameras come with unrivaled service and support.
Firmware: The cameras are field-programmable. This way they can be remotely upgraded and re-programmed. They are compatible with software platforms such as MicroManager, MATLAB, LabVIEW, and ASCOM.
Hardware: Key components like the shutter, fan, and digital board are easily replaceable, eliminating the need for costly factory repairs.
Extreme Durability: Kepler cameras are built for long-term use and are installed in remote observatories and laboratories worldwide, from Antarctica to Finland.
Technical Data
| Sensor Type | Back Illuminated CMOS |
| Sensor | GPixel GSense400BSI |
| Shutter Type | Rolling |
| Active Pixels | 2048 x 2048 |
| Pixel Size (microns) | 11 x 11 µm |
| Imaging Area (Diagonal) | 22.5 X 22.5 mm (31.8 mm) |
| Full Well Capacity | 90000 electrons |
| Typical Readout Noise | 1.6 e- |
| Dynamic Range | 94.6 dB |
| Frame Rate | 24 fps HDR; 48 fps LDR |
| Cooling Method | Air and Liquid * |
| Max. Cooling (Air) | 45°C below ambient |
| Temperature Stability | 0.1°C |
| Dark Current (typical) | 0.4 eps at -20C |
| Interface | USB 3.0 |
| Data Bit Depth | 16 bit ** |
| Optional shutter | 45mm |
| Optional Mounts | Nikon or Canon |
| Subarray Readout | Standard |
| External Trigger In/Out | Standard |
| SDK / Software | Kepler SDK / FLI Pilot |
| Weight | 3 lbs (1.3 kg) |
- * Liquid circulation connectors sold separately.
- ** 16-bit data merged from two 12-bit conversions
Additional information
| Shutter | None, KL 45mm Shutter |
|---|---|
| Anti-Dew Technology (ADT) | None, With ADT |
| Liquid Cooling | None, KL LC Connector Kit |
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