Andor Technology iStar Installation instructions

iStarIsCMOS
Hardware Guide
for the iStar Intensied sCMOS camera
andor.com © Andor Technology Ltd. 2019
Version 1.2 rev 11 Jun 2019

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION 1: INTRODUCTION.............................................................................................................. 9
1.1 HELP AND TECHNICAL SUPPORT...................................................................................... 10
1.2 DISCLAIMER ......................................................................................................................... 11
1.3 TRADEMARKS AND PATENT INFORMATION...................................................................... 11
1.4 SPECIFICATIONS .................................................................................................................. 12
1.5 COMPONENTS...................................................................................................................... 13
1.5.1 Accessories................................................................................................................ 14
SECTION 2: PRODUCT OVERVIEW.................................................................................................. 15
2.1 HARDWARE DESCRIPTION ................................................................................................. 15
2.2 POWER AND SIGNAL CONNECTIONS ................................................................................ 16
2.2.1 connector PlAte ........................................................................................................ 16
2.2.2 Power suPPly unit (Psu) .......................................................................................... 18
SECTION 3: INSTALLATION .............................................................................................................. 19
3.1 CONNECTING THE ISTAR SCMOS TO OTHER EQUIPMENT............................................. 19
3.1.1 AttAching to AsPectrogrAPh...................................................................................... 19
3.1.2 AttAching to Alens system ........................................................................................ 20
3.1.3 AttAching to mounting Posts ..................................................................................... 20
3.1.4 AlternAtive Protective eArth viA eArth stud .............................................................. 20
3.1.5 connecting the istAr scmos cAmerA to the Pc........................................................ 21
3.2 COOLING............................................................................................................................... 22
3.2.1 imPortAnt considerAtions when using liquid cooling systems ..................................... 22
3.3 COOLING HOSE CONNECTORS.......................................................................................... 22
3.3.1 coolAnt recommendAtions.......................................................................................... 22
3.4 CONNECTING THE LIQUID COOLING SYSTEM ................................................................. 23
3.4.1 connecting the coolAnt hoses .................................................................................. 23
3.4.2 disconnecting the coolAnt hoses .............................................................................. 23
3.5 INSTALLING SOFTWARE AND USB DRIVERS..................................................................... 24
3.5.1 minimum comPuter requirements ............................................................................... 24
3.5.2 instAlling solis softwAre And usB driver ................................................................. 24
3.5.3 new hArdwAre wizArd ............................................................................................... 24

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SECTION 4: OPERATION ................................................................................................................... 25
4.1 EMERGENCY MAINS DISCONNECTION .............................................................................. 25
4.2 POWER-UP SEQUENCE........................................................................................................ 25
4.3 POWER-DOWN SEQUENCE.................................................................................................. 25
4.4 USING THE ISTAR SCMOS CAMERA ................................................................................... 25
4.5 PRE-ACQUISITION SETUP.................................................................................................... 26
4.5.1 setting the cooling temPerAture ................................................................................ 26
4.5.2 fAn control ............................................................................................................... 26
4.6 SETUP ACQUISITION PANEL ................................................................................................ 27
4.7 ACQUISITION MODES .......................................................................................................... 28
4.7.1 single scAn................................................................................................................. 28
4.7.2 Kinetic series .............................................................................................................. 28
4.7.3 AccumulAte ................................................................................................................. 28
4.7.4 run till ABort Acquisition .......................................................................................... 29
4.7.4.1 live mode................................................................................................... 29
4.7.5 fAst exPosure switch ................................................................................................ 29
4.7.6 frAme rAte control ................................................................................................... 30
4.8 READOUT MODES................................................................................................................. 30
4.8.1 Binning/roi ................................................................................................................ 31
4.8.2 orientAtion .................................................................................................................. 32
4.8.3 Acquisition And dAtA tyPes selection .......................................................................... 32
4.8.3.1 definitions of dAtA tyPes ........................................................................... 32
4.8.3.2 dAtA disPlAy And Processing modes ........................................................... 33
4.8.4 AutoscAle Acquisition ................................................................................................. 34
4.8.5 dAtA file hAndling ...................................................................................................... 35
4.8.5.1 sPooling (dAtA sPooling)............................................................................ 35
4.8.5.2 virtuAl memory.......................................................................................... 35
4.8.5.3 Auto-sAve .................................................................................................. 36
4.8.6 dAtAflow monitor ...................................................................................................... 36

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4.9 GATING AND IMAGE INTENSIFIER SETTINGS (GATING) ...................................................37
4.9.1 gAte modes................................................................................................................37
4.9.2 using the gAte monitor .............................................................................................39
4.9.3 mcP gAin ..................................................................................................................40
4.9.4 insertion delAy...........................................................................................................41
4.9.5 intelligAte ..................................................................................................................43
4.9.6 integrAte onchiP (ioc) .............................................................................................44
4.9.7 digitAl delAy generAtor (ddg) steP (including gAte steP).........................................46
4.9.7.1 steP mode configurAtion ..........................................................................46
4.9.7.2 steP uPloAd..............................................................................................48
4.10 TRIGGERING MODES ...........................................................................................................49
4.10.1 internAl trigger.........................................................................................................49
4.10.2 externAl trigger........................................................................................................49
4.10.3 externAl stArt ...........................................................................................................50
4.10.4 softwAre trigger.......................................................................................................50
4.10.5 externAl exPosure trigger ........................................................................................50
4.11 SETTING UP PIV MODE ON ISTAR SCMOS ........................................................................51
4.11.1 solis settings for Piv mode......................................................................................51
4.11.2 setting uP the externAl delAy generAtor (ddg)............................................................
for two inPut signAls..................................................................................................52
SECTION 5: MAINTENANCE.............................................................................................................53
5.1 REGULAR CHECKS ..............................................................................................................53
5.2 ANNUAL ELECTRICAL SAFETY CHECKS ...........................................................................53
5.3 FUSE REPLACEMENT ..........................................................................................................53
5.4 COOLING HOSES AND CONNECTIONS..............................................................................53

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SECTION 6: TROUBLESHOOTING .................................................................................................. 54
6.1 CAMERA BUZZER DOES NOT SOUND ON START-UP...................................................... 54
6.2 CAMERA IS NOT RECOGNIZED BY PC.............................................................................. 54
6.3 BUZZER SOUNDS CONTINUOUSLY................................................................................... 54
6.4 FAN NOT OPERATING AS EXPECTED................................................................................ 54
6.5 CAMERA DOES NOT COOL TO THE REQUIRED TEMPERATURE.................................... 54
6.6 PREVENTING CONDENSATION .......................................................................................... 54
APPENDIX A: MECHANICAL DRAWINGS ....................................................................................... 56
APPENDIX B: DEW POINT GRAPH ................................................................................................. 57
APPENDIX C: INTENSIFIER INFORMATION ................................................................................... 58
APPENDIX D: DDG INFORMATION ................................................................................................. 60
APPENDIX E: SCMOS STRUCTURE AND OPERATION ................................................................. 63
APPENDIX F: OTHER INFORMATION ............................................................................................. 70

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SAFETY AND WARNING INFORMATION
PLEASE READ THIS INFORMATION FIRST BEFORE USING YOUR iSTAR INTENSIFIED sCMOS CAMERA.
1. To ensure correct and safe operation of this product, please read this guide before use and keep it in a safe place for future
reference
2. If equipment is used in a manner not specied by Andor, the protection provided by the equipment may be impaired
3. Before using the system, please follow and adhere to all warnings, safety, manual handling and operating instructions located
either on the product or in this manual
4. An integral part of protection against electric shock in the case of a fault is the protective earth provided via the earth conductors
in the mains cable. It is therefore vital that the earth system of the building, and in particular the socket, is constructed properly
to provide suitable protection when needed.
5. As the main protective earth is also provided via the Andor-supplied External Power Supply, then if this is not used, the
alternative Earth Stud must be used instead (see page 20).
6. The Andor iStar sCMOS is a precision scientic instrument containing fragile components. Always handle with care
7. Do not expose the product to extreme hot or cold temperatures
8. Ensure that a minimum clearance of approximately 100mm (4”) is maintained in front of all ventilation slots and the fan inlet
9. If using water cooling, ensure that cooling water supply is connected prior to powering the camera.
10. Do not expose the product to open ames
11. Do not allow objects to fall on the product
12. Do not expose the product to moisture, wet or spill liquids on the product. Do not store or place liquids on the product. If a
spillage occurs on the product, switch off power immediately, and wipe off with dry, lint-free cloth. If any ingress has occurred or
is suspected, unplug the mains cable, do not use, and contact Andor service
13. The product contains components that are extremely sensitive to static electricity and radiated electromagnetic elds, and
therefore should not be used, or stored, close to EMI/RFI generators, electrostatic eld generators, electromagnetic or
radioactive devices, or other similar sources of high energy elds
14. Operation of the system close to intense pulsed sources (e.g. plasma sources, arc welders, radio frequency generators, X-ray
instruments, and pulsed discharge optical sources) may compromise performance if shielding of the iStar sCMOS is inadequate
15. This product is not designed to provide protection from ionising radiation. Any customer using this product in such an
application should provide their own protection
16. The Andor iStar sCMOS is for use in research laboratories and other controlled scientic environments
17. This equipment has not been designed and manufactured for the medical diagnosis of patients
18. Use only the power supply cord provided with the system for this unit. Should this not be correct for your geographical area
contact your local Andor representative
19. Only the correctly specied mains supply and fuse must be used
20. Make sure the electrical cord is located so that it will not be subject to damage
22. There are no user-serviceable parts beyond the specied user accessible areas of the product and the enclosure must not be
opened. Only authorised service personnel may service this equipment
23. The above label indicates that this unit contains components which are sensitive to and can be damaged by electrostatic
discharge. When working on a unit which is not enclosed, it is necessary to follow anti static precautions to ensure damage does
not occur.
RegulatoRy ComplianCe
The iStar sCMOS complies with the requirements of the EU EMC and LV Directives
through testing to EN 61326-1 and EN 61010-1.
This product requires a DC power supply (refer to Section 1.6)

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ADDITIONAL NOTES - AVOIDING DAMAGE TO THE IMAGE INTENSIFIER
An image intensier is a very sensitive instrument, with care and good working practice, it should last many years.
1. There are two major potential forms of damage to be considered:
• Bleaching of the photocathode brought about by over-illuminance of this photo-sensitive interface
Bleaching of the photocathode reduces the Quantum Efciency (QE) response (it can render it completely
unresponsive) and may permanently increases the background noise of the Image Intensier.
• Ion damage of the cathode brought about by excessive numbers of photoelectrons in the Multichannel Plate
(hereinafter referred to as the MCP). As a general rule of thumb, when the sensor is already saturated, this type
of damage is liable to occur.
Excessive numbers of photoelectrons in the MCP brought about by excessive input light levels, or moderate
light levels and excessive gain can damage both the photocathode, MCP or the phosphor screen.
If the multichannel plate is overloaded with incoming electrons, it is much more likely for positive ions to
be knocked out of the walls of the multichannel plate by the colliding electrons. These ions are accelerated
towards the photocathode and can do considerable mechanical damage.
Excessive electrons can also increase the outgassing rate inside the tube to the point where the vacuum is
seriously diminished.
The protection circuitry in the iStar sCMOS monitors the current drawn by the phosphor, which is indirectly
linked to the incident signal intensity as seen through the MCP gain chain. Above a certain level the high
voltage power supply at the MCP shuts down to prevent damage. However, when only a sub-section of the
phosphor / photocathode is illuminated, damage can occur without the high voltage supply shutting down.
Applications involving focusing of strong spectral line features, or conned bright spots in a imaging scenario
must therefore be treated with appropriate caution.
The following best practices should be observed:
Always maintain the measured signal below the saturation level of the sensor. This should constitute a safe operating
condition in most circumstances.
• Do not focus features of <50 μm on the photocathode (i.e. stay around the resolution limit of the iStar sCMOS).
For example, a 10 μm feature might be sufciently intense to damage the photocathode but, when it is smeared
out to ~ 50 μm, it may not be saturating the sensor and therefore satises the general guideline above. This
applies to images and to spectra. Be particularly careful with automatic spectrographs that reset themselves
with the brighter zero order on the center of the focal plane.
• Always keep the photocathode covered when the detector is not in use (the photocathode will degrade even
when switched off). This can be facilitated by using a mechanical shutter whenever possible.
• If you are unsure of the signal levels to be detected, one should start with low signal levels and build up. If
necessary, use a CCD detector to check the signal level.
• Protect the iStar sCMOS from mechanical shock both in use, and in transit, as damage to the intensier tube
may result from sharp jolts.
2. To remove dirt or ngerprints on the input window of the image intensier, please contact your local Andor
representative for advice on how to best clean this interface.
3. Turning off the iStar sCMOS camera through mains or camera On/Off switch during acquisition or cooling may result
in damage to the camera. When possible, ensure sensor cooling temperature should be > 0oC (after switching Off
the cooler) before turning off the camera.
4. Prior to mounting the camera on an optical system, the black grommet which covers the image intensier and
protects it from unwanted photo-bleaching must be carefully removed without the use of any tools such as
screwdrivers.

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Revision HistoRy
Version Released Description
1.0 19 Sep 2016 Initial Release. Limited distribution in compact format.
1.1 06 Apr 2017 Added additional information regarding alternative earthing requirements if the standard
supplied power supply is not used with the product.
1.2 11 Jun 2019 Updated USA and Asia-Pacific addresses and updated back panel image.

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SECTION 1: INTRODUCTION
Thank you for choosing the iStar intensied Scientic CMOS (sCMOS) camera. You are now in possession of a
revolutionary new intensied camera which combines the ultra-fast, gated image intensier technology of the Andor iStar
with the high resolution, dynamic, high speed sCMOS sensor as seen previously in the Andor Zyla and Neo.
Figure 1: The iStar sCMOS Camera
This manual contains useful information and advice to ensure you get the optimum performance from your new system.
If you have any questions regarding your iStar sCMOS, camera please feel free to contact Andor directly, or via your
local representative or supplier.

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1.1 Help and teCHniCal suppoRt
If you have any questions regarding the use of this equipment, please contact the representative* from whom your
system was purchased, or:
Europe USA
Andor Technology Ltd.
7 Millennium Way
Springvale Business Park
Belfast
BT12 7AL
Northern Ireland
Tel. [phone]
Fax. [phone]
Andor Technology
300 Baker Avenue
Suite # 150
Concord
MA 01742
USA
Tel. [phone]
Fax. [phone]
Asia-Pacic China
Andor Technology (Japan)
5F IS Building
3-32-42 Higashi-Shinagawa
Tokyo 140-0002
Japan
Tel: [phone]
Fax: [phone]
Andor Technology
Unit 1, Building A,
66 Zhufang Rd, Haidian Dist.
Beijing 100085
China
Tel: [phone]
Fax. [phone]
* The latest contact details for your local representative can be found on the Contact and Support page of our website.

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1.2 disClaimeR
THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS PROVIDED “AS IS” WITHOUT WARRANTY, CONDITION OR REPRESENTATION OF
ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS, IMPLIED, STATUTORY OR OTHERWISE, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO, ANY WARRANTY OF
MERCHANTABILITY, NON-INFRINGEMENT OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE.
IN NO EVENT SHALL ANDOR BE LIABLE FOR ANY LOSS OR DAMAGE, WHETHER DIRECT, INDIRECT, SPECIAL, INCIDENTAL,
CONSEQUENTIAL OR OTHERWISE HOWSOEVER CAUSED WHETHER ARISING IN CONTRACT, TORT OR OTHERWISE, ARISING OUT
OF OR IN CONNECTION WITH THE USE OF THE INFORMATION PROVIDED HEREIN.
COPYRIGHT AND PROTECTIVE NOTICES:
The copyright in this document and the associated drawings are the property of Andor Technology Ltd. and all rights
are reserved. This document and the associated drawings are issued on condition that they are not copied, reprinted or
reproduced, nor their contents disclosed.
The publication of information in this documentation does not imply freedom from any patent or proprietary right of
Andor Technology Ltd. or any third party.
1.3 tRademaRks and patent infoRmation
Andor, the Andor logo, iStar and Solis are trademarks of Andor Technology Ltd. Andor Technology Ltd is an Oxford
Instruments company. All other marks are property of their owners.
Changes are periodically made to the product and these will be incorporated into new editions of the manual. New
releases of the manual are available through MyAndor: https://my.andor.com/login.aspx.

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1.4 speCifiCations
Table 1: Technical Specications of the iStar sCMOS Camera
Parameter Specication
Sensor Type Front-illuminated Scientic CMOS
Sensor Matrix
2560 x 2160 pixels (W x H), 6.5 µm pixel size
Ø18 mm
intensier
1:1 coupler
Ø25 mm
intensier
1:1 coupler
Sensor Size 16.6 x 14.0 mm
21.8 mm diagonal
Pixel Well Depth (e-)30,000
Read Noise (e-) Median [RMS]
at available readout rates
@200 MHz 2.4 [2.7]
@560 MHz 2.6 [2.9]
Minimum Cooling Temperature
[dark current, e-/pixel/s]
air cooled
liquid cooled
Ø18 mm photocathode
0oC [0.18]
0oC [0.18]
Ø25 mm photocathode
0oC [0.18]
0oC [0.18]
Sensor Linearity (% maximum) Better than 99.8%
Data Range 12-bit (fastest speed) and 16-bit maximum dynamic range)
Pixel Binning On-head, pre-dened options 2x2, 4x4... or exible conguration setup
Region of Interest Minimum channel height of 8 rows
Interface Option USB 3.0
Internal Memory 1GB
AC/DC Power supply ratings 100 - 240 VAC, 43 - 67 Hz
External PSU Specications
12 V, 9 A output max
Connector: 3-pin Redel
Refer to Section 2.2.2 for detailed specications
Power Consumption Camera + External Power Supply (Typ./ Max.): 69 W/ 124 W
Camera Only (Typ./ Max.): 60 W/ 108 W
Location to be used Indoor use only
Altitude Up to 2000 m
Ambient Operating
Temperature range 0°C to 40°C
Storage temperature -20°C to +55°C
Operating relative humidity < 70% non-condensing
Overvoltage category CAT II AC/DC, CAT I Camera
Pollution degree Pollution degree 2. Normally only non-conductive pollution occurs. Occasionally, however, a temporary
conductivity caused by condensation must be expected.
Ingress protection rating IP20
Electromagnetic compatibility This is a Class A product. In a domestic environment this product may cause electromagnetic interference, in
which case the user may be required to take adequate measures
Cooling vent clearance 100 mm minimum
Dimensions (LxWxH) 231.0 [9.09] x 110.7 [4.36] x 137.2 [5.40] mm [inches] Water connectors add 23.3 [0.92] length.
Weight 4.5 kg [9 lb 15 oz]
Note: for QE curve information please refer to Appendix C
sCMOS
Sensor
sCMOS
Sensor

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1.5 Components
The standard components supplied with the iStar sCMOS are shown in Table 2. Note that the iStar sCMOS camera
requires camera control software e.g. Solis, supplied separately.
Table 2: Standard Components supplied with the iStar sCMOS
Description Quantity
iStar Intensied sCMOS Camera 1
Description Quantity
PCIe Frame Grabber
Card 1
Camera to PC USB 3.0
Interface cables (s) 1 x 3 m
Power Supply Unit
and Country specic
Power Cord
1
SMA - BNC Cable 2 x 3 m
Gate Monitor Cable 1
Description Quantity
Anti-static Strap 1
Allen Key
( 7/64, 3/32, 3.0mm &
2.5mm)
4
Hardware Guide
on CD* 1
Quick Start
Guide 1
Hose inserts
(for connection to
cooling system)
2
* Note: please check MyAndor for the latest product documentation.

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1.5.1 aCCessoRies
There is a range of optional and additional accessories available for your iStar sCMOS camera including:
• C-Mount Lens Adaptor Kit (P/N LM-C), comprising C-mount adaptor,
spacer tubes, screws & allen key.
• Nikon F-Mount Lens Adaptor (P/N LM-NIKON-F).
• Nikon F-Mount adaptor with shutter (P/N LMS-NIKON-F-NS25B).
Note: The use of a mechanical shutter is recommended. Although Image Intensiers act as efcient optical
shutters, the use of a mechanical shutter is recommended when the camera is not used to protect the
photocathode from “passive” photo-bleaching.

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SECTION 2: PRODUCT OVERVIEW
2.1 HaRdwaRe desCRiption
This section provides an overview of the external and other features of the iStar sCMOS camera.
Figure 2: External features of the iStar sCMOS Camera
Intensier Input Window
The input window protects the intensier and internal optical components from exposure to contaminants and moisture
that would otherwise impact performance.
Mounting Flange
The mounting ange enables the iStar sCMOS to be mounted to a wide range of optical components. Refer to
mechanical drawings in Appendix A.
Sensor
The iStar sCMOS features a scientic sCMOS sensor.
Gate Monitor Socket
The gate monitor socket is located behind the grommet.
Ventilation Slots
There are two sets of ventilation slots. At the top of the camera, air is taken in through the top grill and passed out
through the side grills. At the side of the camera, air is taken through the side shown above, and passed out through the
opposite side. Ensure that there is sufcient space (>100 mm) to enable adequate ventilation.
Dry Gas Purge Port
Dry gas purge for intensier input window, push t for 6.0 mm [0.24] O.D. plastic hose (vent on opposite side).
Sensor
Ventilation
Slots
Ventilation
Slots
Mounting
Flange
Intensier
Input
Window
Dry Gas
Purge Port
Gate Monitor
Socket

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2.2 poweR and signal ConneCtions
2.2.1 ConneCtoR plate
Figure 3: iStar Connections
Power Input
For connection to the external PSU (refer to Section 2.2.2). An On/Off switch is also present (shown above).
USB
A USB 3.0 compatible cable can be connected between the USB socket and a PC. An optional locking interface is also
available.
Direct gate
TTL compatible input used to directly gate the photocathode of the image intensier tube, i.e. switch it On and Off. The
photocathode is On when the input is high. User should provide (electrical) pulse width and appropriate gate pulse delay
Logic Input / Output (SMA) Connections
The user can synchronize the readout of the iStar sCMOS camera to external events / equipment by means of the SMA
connections. The functions of each are detailed below:
• Ext Trig (External Trigger): TTL compatible input which is used to initiate data acquisition by the camera
• Digital Delay Generator Outputs A, B & C: Programmable 5V CMOS level outputs used to synchronize
external events / equipment with operation of the iStar sCMOS
•Fire: 5V CMOS level reference signal relating to the sensor exposure time. This output remains high during
the charge / signal accumulation period, i.e. the time during which charge from the image area is not being
read-out
• Arm: 5V CMOS level reference signal to indicate when system is ready to accept external triggers. Signal
goes high when system is ready to accept external triggers after a readout sequence has nished.
• Aux Out (external mechanical shutter output) Congured by default to a 5V CMOS level with 50 Ω
Direct gate
Power
Input
External
trigger
Output A, B, C
Water
connection
USB 3.0 (optional lockable interface)
I2C
Earthing stud
On/Off switch
Aux Out
Pre-Trig In
USB 3.0

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impedance shutter output for controlling Andor Shamrock spectrograph mechanical shutters.
• Pre-Trig In Controls the sensor exposure in ‘external exposure mode’. Also available in ‘external trigger
mode’ as a optional exclusive trigger to the sensor.
I2C
Compatible with Fischer SC102A054-130, pin-outs as follow: 1 = Shutter (5V CMOS level with 50 Ω impedance), 2 = I2C
Clock (5V), 3 = I2C Data (5V), 4 = +5 Vdc, 5 = Ground. The pin-outs of this connector are shown below:
Figure 4: Pin outs of the I2C connector
Earthing Stud
Enables the iStar sCMOS to be connected to an external earthing point to maintain low noise and/or is used as an
alternative Protective Earth Connector Terminal in the event that the Andor-supplied External Power Supply is not used,
e.g. by an OEM (see page 20).
Water/Liquid Cooling Connections
Refer to Section 3.2 for information on the use of water/liquid cooling.
Gate Monitor
Enables user to monitor the accurate, actual On and Off switching of the photocathode (located as shown below).
Pin Function
1 SHUTTER (TTL)
2 I2C CLOCK
3 I2C DATA
4 +5 V
5 GROUND
12
3
4
5
Gate
Monitor
Water Connections

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2.2.2 poweR supply unit (psu)
Camera Power Input (12 V DC)
The iStar sCMOS camera is powered by a external 12 V DC Power Supply Unit (PSU). The iStar sCMOS camera is
connected to the PSU via a 3 pin Redel cable plug (Part No. PAH.N0.3GL.LC65G).
Figure 5: 3-pin Power Connection pin outs
Ensure that the power connector is inserted correctly. Never forcibly insert the connector otherwise damage to
the equipment may occur.
The iStar sCMOS requires a Direct Current (DC) supply.
External Power Suppy (PSU)
Parameter Specication
Input Characteristics 100 - 240 VAC, 43 - 67 Hz
Output
Low Voltage Output: 12 V d.c. ± 5%
Low Voltage Output Ripple: 120 mV max.
Steady State Current Output: 9 A min.
In-rush current from a non-current limited power source with a 0.1 Ω source resistance is 50 A peak
with a half-height pulse width of 15 μS
Figure 6: External Power Supply Unit
NOTES:
1. The electrical mains lead should be certied for use in your country and in applicable countries the plug
must be tted with a 240V 5A fuse.
2. If users use any other power supply, they do so at their own risk.
Protective Earth
0 V
+12 V

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SECTION 3: INSTALLATION
WARNING: Prior to commencing installation, the user should refer to the safety and warning information at the
beginning of this manual.
3.1 ConneCting tHe istaR sCmos to otHeR equipment
3.1.1 attaCHing to aspeCtRogRapH
The iStar sCMOS can be easily connected to an Andor spectrograph. If the iStar sCMOS and Andor’s spectrograph
have been ordered at the same time, the system will arrive already pre-aligned and integrated. If this is not the case,
such as matching the iStar sCMOS to an existing, or third-party spectrograph - the following general guidelines
should be observed. Refer also to the instructions supplied with other system components for mounting cameras and
detectors.
1. Bolt the detector to the camera mounting ange, ensuring that the head is correctly orientated and that
the appropriate O-ring is inserted at the front of the detector head.
2. Attach the camera mounting ange to the spectrograph, ensuring that the appropriate O-ring is in place
between both detector ange and spectrograph ange.
3. Secure all four attachment screws so that the detector head, the anges and the spectrograph are tted
together securely in order to allow correct grounding through the connector cable. Good grounding
maintains the low noise performance of the detector, and in severe environments may prevent the
instrument from damage.

iStar sCMOS
20
Version 1.2 rev 11 Jun 2019
3.1.2 attaCHing to alens system
The iStar sCMOS can also be easily connected to a lens system for imaging purposes. Your local Andor representative
can supply details of the available adaptors for connecting the iStar sCMOS to various manufacturers’ lenses. The
following general instructions should be followed:
1. When attaching the iStar sCMOS to a lens adaptor (C-Mount or F-Mount for example), ensure rst that
the adapter is correctly orientated and aligned. Ensure that the appropriate O-ring is inserted between the
camera front plate and the lens adaptor plate. In the case of the C-Mount, place the side of the adaptor
that is ush with the metal insert towards the iStar sCMOS front plate. Ensure that all four attachment
screws are secured to the adaptor.
2. Attach the appropriate lens into the metal insert (C-Mount) or bayonnet interface (F-Mount) of the lens
adaptor.
3.1.3 attaCHing to mounting posts
Three ¼ -20 UNC threaded holes are located on the underside of the camera as shown below. For further information,
refer to the mechanical drawings in Appendix A.
3.1.4 alteRnative pRoteCtive eaRtH via eaRtH stud
As the main Protective Earth is provided via the Andor-supplied External Power Supply, then if this is not used, the
alternative Earth Stud (see section 2.2.1) must be used instead as follows:
• A double-crimped, M4 Ring Terminal with 10AWG (6 mm2) or larger, green and yellow striped, insulated wire must be
connected and it is the responsibility of the customer that it is suitably and reliably connected at the other end to the
building’s protective earth system.