Hamamatsu Photonics C15440-20UP User manual

B1060301-00
ORCA-Quest
qCMOS Camera
C15550-20UP
Instruction manual
Thank you for your purchase
• Follow the safety precautions in Chapter 1 in order to avoid personal injury and
damage to property when using this camera. The manual describes the correct
handling method of the camera and provides instructions that should be
followed to avoid accidents. Read this manual carefully before using this
camera. After reading this manual, store it in a location where you can refer to
it at any time.
Ver.1.0
May 2021

~ Blank page ~

qCMOS Camera C15550-20UP Instruction manual_Ver.1.0
3
1. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
1-1 SYMBOLS
The symbols shown below are used for this camera.
Direct current
Alternating current
1-2 CLASSIFICATION OF WARNINGS
We have classified the warnings symbols that appear in this instruction manual and on the camera as
follows for your convenience. Make sure that you fully understand them and follow the instructions they
contain.
Improper handling of the camera without observing these warnings could lead to
serious injury to the user and even death.
Improper handling of the camera without observing these cautions could lead to
personal injury to the user or damage to property.
This symbol indicates a cautionary item that should be followed when handling the camera.
Read the contents carefully to ensure correct and safe use.
This symbol indicates an action that is forbidden.
Read and follow the instructions carefully.
This symbol indicates a compulsory action or instruction.
Read and follow the instructions carefully.
This symbol indicates a note to help you get the best performance from the camera. Read the
contents of the note carefully to ensure correct and safe use. Failure to observe one of these
notes might impair the performance of the camera.

qCMOS Camera C15550-20UP Instruction manual_Ver.1.0
4
Power supply
Use the camera with the indicated voltage on the rating sticker. Using a different
voltage can damage the camera and lead to fire or electric shock.
Cables
Do not to place heavy objects on cables or bend them excessively. Doing so can
damage the cables and lead to fire or electric shock.
Power supply cord
Use the accessory power supply cord when using this camera.
AC adapter
Use the accessory AC adapter when this using this camera.
Do not touch the plug with wet hands. Doing so can lead to electric shock.
Do not attempt to dismantle or modify the camera
Doing so can also lead to damage and even injury, as some internal components
become very hot or high voltage. Do not touch parts that are not indicated in this
manual.
Do not allow foreign objects
Such as combustible substances, metal objects or water to get inside the camera.
These can damage the camera and lead to fire or electric shock.
In the event of an anomaly
such as the image suddenly disappearing or the occurrence of a strange noise, a
strange smell or smoke coming from the camera, immediately turn off the power
switch and unplug the power supply cord and contact a Hamamatsu subsidiary or
your local distributor. Do not attempt to repair the camera yourself.

qCMOS Camera C15550-20UP Instruction manual_Ver.1.0
5
AC adapter
When unplugging the power supply cord, do not pull on the cord. Remove the
plug from the outlet to avoid causing electric shock or fire.
When unplugging the power supply cord, do not pull on the cord, but remove the
plug from the camera to avoid breakdown of the AC adapter
or the camera.
Connecting and disconnecting cables
Always turn off the power supply of the peripheral device before connecting and
disconnecting cables.
Mounting the camera
When mounting the camera to a tripod or other fixture, use the base plate. Be
careful that the mounting screw does not enter more than 8 mm from the surface
of the base plate. Screwing it in further can impair normal operation.
Lenses
Be careful not to screw the lens more than 7 mm into the C-mount of the camera.
Doing so can scratch the protective glass. (Some wide-angle lenses in particular
can have a thread of 7 mm or more.)
Shipping precautions
When transporting the camera by truck, ship, airplane, etc., wrap it securely in
packaging material or something similar.
Strong impact
Do not subject the camera to strong shocks (such as dropping it). Doing so can
damage the camera.
Operating environment
This camera is designed and tested for use in an industrial environment. If this
camera is used in residential areas, EMI (electro-magnetic interference) may
occur. This camera must not be used in residential areas.
Disposal
When disposing of the camera, take appropriate measures in compliance with
applicable regulations regarding waste disposal and correctly dispose of it
yourself, or entrust disposal to a licensed industrial waste disposal company. In
any case, be sure to comply with the regulations in your country, state, region or
province to ensure the camera is disposed of legally and correctly.

qCMOS Camera C15550-20UP Instruction manual_Ver.1.0
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FCC Rules
Note
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the
following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference,
and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference
that may cause undesired operation.
Note
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class
A digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed
to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference when the
equipment is operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates,
uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in
accordance with the instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to
cause harmful interference in which case the user will be required to correct the
interference at his own expense.
Note
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for
compliance could void user’s authority to operate the equipment.

qCMOS Camera C15550-20UP Instruction manual_Ver.1.0
7
Using water-cooling
Be careful water does not splash on the camera. Cut off the power supply of the
circulating water cooler and the camera when you remove and install the cooling
water hoses.
Cooling water
It is recommended to use soft water (except pure water) for cooling water. Follow
instruction manual which is attached to your circulating water cooler for an
appropriate temperature range of cooling water. If you plan on using water other
than soft water as recommended for example antifreeze etc, refer to description of
cooling water which is written in 12. “MAINTENANCE” or contact a Hamamatsu
subsidiary or your local distributor.
Condensation
At the Water-cooling, if ambient temperature and ambient humidity become high,
condensation will take place easily. Use the camera under the environment where
condensation will not take place referring to the following graph.
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
15 20 25 30 35 40
Ambient humidity [%]
Ambient temperature [℃]
Relations between ambient temperature and ambient humidity
Water temperature 20 ℃ for water cooling Water temperature 25 ℃ for water cooling

qCMOS Camera C15550-20UP Instruction manual_Ver.1.0
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2. CHECK THE CONTENTS OF PACKAGE
When opening the package, check that the following items are included before use.
If the contents are incorrect, insufficient or damaged in any way, contact a Hamamatsu subsidiary
or your local distributor before attempting to operate the camera.
qCMOS Camera: C15550-20UP
1
AC adapter
1
Power supply cord for AC adapter
1
Lens mount cap (attached to the camera)
1
C15550-20UP (Booklet)
1
C15550-20UP Instruction manual (CD-ROM)
1
QC sheet
1
[Option]
Cooling water hose (2 hoses)
A10788-04
SMA-BNC cable
A12106-05
SMA-SMA cable
A12107-05
CoaXPress interface board
M9982-30
CoaXPress interface cable
A14590-05-40
USB interface board
M9982-25
USB interface cable
A12467-03
• Handle the circulating water cooler and the cooling water according to the instruction manual of the
circulating water cooler.
Note
• The cable listed in option is highly recommended for use with the camera. The camera and camera system
may not confirm to CE marking and FCC regulations if other type of cable is used with.
Note
• If you use the above options, refer to the each installation manual.

qCMOS Camera C15550-20UP Instruction manual_Ver.1.0
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3. INSTALLATION
Avoid using or storing this camera in the following places
•
Places where the temperature is not the operating temperature indicated in the specifications
• Places where the temperature is not the storage temperature indicated in the specifications
• Places where the temperature varies greatly
• In direct sunlight or near a heater
• Places where the humidity levels are not the operating humidity levels indicated in the
specifications and where the camera may be exposed to liquid
• Places where the humidity levels are not the storage humidity levels indicated in the
specifications and where the camera may be exposed to liquid
• Close to a strong source of magnetism or radio waves
• Places where there are vibrations
• Places where the camera may come into contact with corrosive gases (such as chlorine or
fluorine)
• Places where there is a lot of dust
How to place the camera (when the camera is placed on a table)
Place the camera with the ventilation ports to sideways.
Ensure that there is sufficient airflow through the camera fan.
(Do not block ventilation openings.)
Do not allow the ventilation ports to become blocked.
To prevent the camera from overheating, do not wrap the camera in cloth or any
other material, or in any way allow the camera’s ventilation ports to become
blocked. If the camera is being operated in a closed environment, ensure clearance
of at least 10 cm from both the intake and exhaust vents when setting up the
camera.
Weight of the camera
Be careful not to drop the camera when moving it as it is approx. 3.0 kg.

qCMOS Camera C15550-20UP Instruction manual_Ver.1.0
10
Contents
1. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS...................................................................................3
1-1 SYMBOLS ........................................................................................................................... 3
1-2 CLASSIFICATION OF WARNINGS .................................................................................... 3
2. CHECK THE CONTENTS OF PACKAGE..........................................................8
3. INSTALLATION..................................................................................................9
4. OVERVIEW.......................................................................................................12
5. FEATURES.......................................................................................................12
6. NAME AND FUNCTION OF PARTS ................................................................15
7. CONNECTION..................................................................................................18
8. WATER COOLING ...........................................................................................20
8-1 CAUTIONS ........................................................................................................................ 20
8-2 CONNECTION OF WATER COOLING HOSES ...............................................................22
8-3 DISCONNECTION OF WATER COOLING HOSES ......................................................... 23
9. OPERATIONS ..................................................................................................24
9-1 OPERATING PRECAUTIONS .......................................................................................... 24
9-2 PREPARATING FOR IMAGING........................................................................................ 25
9-3 IMAGING ........................................................................................................................... 25
9-4 END OF IMAGING............................................................................................................. 25
9-5 STARTUP DCAM CONFIGURATOR ................................................................................ 26
9-6 UPDATE PROCEDURE OF COAXPRESS INTERFACE BOARD ................................... 28
10. DESCRIPTION OF CMOS IMAGE SENSOR ...................................................29
10-1 THEORY OF CMOS IMAGE SENSOR ............................................................................. 29
10-2 READOUT METHOD OF CMOS IMAGE SENSOR.......................................................... 30
10-3 PRECAUTION WHEN USING CMOS IMAGE SENSOR..................................................30
11. DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS FUNCTIONS ....................................................31
11-1 AREA READOUT MODE, PHOTON NUMBER RESOLVING MODE .............................. 31
11-2 LIGHTSHEET READOUT MODE...................................................................................... 50
11-3 REAL-TIME DEFECT PIXEL CORRECTION ................................................................... 58
11-4 DATA REDUCTION FUNCTIONS..................................................................................... 59
11-5 MASTER PULSE ............................................................................................................... 60
12. MAINTENANCE................................................................................................61

qCMOS Camera C15550-20UP Instruction manual_Ver.1.0
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12-1 CARE................................................................................................................................. 61
12-2 INFORMATION ON COOLING WATER FOR THE CIRCULATING WATER COOLER ..62
13. TROUBLESHOOTING......................................................................................63
13-1 IMAGE IS NOT TRANSFERRED ...................................................................................... 63
13-2 ALTHOUGH IMAGES ARE TRANSFFERED ...................................................................63
14. SPECIFICATIONS ............................................................................................64
14-1 CAMERA SPECIFICATIONS ............................................................................................ 64
14-2 CONDENSATION.............................................................................................................. 67
14-3 SPECTRAL RESPONSE CHARACTERISTICS (TYP.) .................................................... 67
15. DIMENSIONAL OUTLINES..............................................................................68
15-1 C15550-20UP .................................................................................................................... 68
16. WARRANTY .....................................................................................................69
16-1 BASIC WARRANTY .......................................................................................................... 69
16-2 REPAIRS ........................................................................................................................... 69
17. CONTACT INFORMATION ..............................................................................70

qCMOS Camera C15550-20UP Instruction manual_Ver.1.0
12
4. OVERVIEW
The qCMOS camera (C15550-20UP) utilizes a custom image sensor (quantitative CMOS image
sensor: qCMOS) using the latest CMOS design technologies and ultra-small semiconductor
technologies and realizes extremely low readout noise (0.27 electrons (r.m.s)). Therefore, photon
number resolving is realized within each pixel, enabling superior low light performance and
quantitativeness. In addition, the qCMOS camera provides higher speed, lower noise, higher
pixelcounts and a better resolution than Gen III sCMOS cameras. Therefore, the qCMOS camera
suitable for various applications not only life science microscopy but also physics application like
quantum technologies, Astronomy and spectroscopies.
* For more detail information of the qCMOS image sensor and the photon number resolving, refer
to the white paper (qCMOS: Quantitative CMOS technologies by Photon Number Resolving)
5. FEATURES
(1) Readout noise
The qCMOS camera adopts the qCMOS image sensor using the latest CMOS design technologies
and ultra-small semiconductor technologies and realizes extremely low readout noise (0.27
electrons (r.m.s)).
(2) Photon number resolving capability
Photon number resolving is realized within each pixel, enabling superior low light performance and
quantitativeness. The camera has a special mode called “Photon number resolving mode”. It can
output the digital data as photon number (one digital number per one photoelectron) by quantifying
the output digital data from AD converter to photon number with real time image processing.
(3) Pixel number and pixel size
The qCMOS image sensor has 9.4 megapixels. the pixel number is about 1.78 times that of the
conventional scientific CMOS image sensor. The pixel size is 4.6 µm × 4.6 µm for high resolution
imaging and is smaller than that of the conventional scientific CMOS camera (6.5 µm × 6.5 µm).
(4) Quantum efficiency
The adoption of the back side illuminated and deep trench isolation technologies between pixels
improves the quantum efficiency over a wide wavelength range from blue to near-infrared with
minimum crosstalk achieving a high quantum efficiency of 90 % and 33 % at 475 nm and 900 nm
wavelength, respectively.
(5) Readout methods
The camera has a variety of readout modes. In addition to full resolution readout mode (1×1), sub-
array readout and binning readout (2×2, 4×4) are supported.

qCMOS Camera C15550-20UP Instruction manual_Ver.1.0
13
(6) Frame rate
This camera realizes both low noise (0.43 electrons (r.m.s)) and high-speed readout (120 fps with
9.4 megapixels) simultaneously, by optimized and accelerated column amplifier and A/D.
(7) Dark current
The state-of-the-art design of the qCMOS image sensor in this camera also achieves low dark
current in addition to low readout noise. Innovative cooling technology is implemented on the
camera to allow cooling down to -35 °C (when switched to Max cooling). Achieving a dak current
of 0.006 electrons/pixel/s makes the camera suitable for long exposure imaging and measurement.
(8) Real-time correction functions
There are a few pixels in CMOS image sensor that have brighter or darker intensity, when
compared to surrounding pixels. The camera has a real-time variant (defective) pixel correction
feature to further improve image quality. The correction can be performed in real-time without
sacrificing any of the readout speed.
(9) Interface
This camera has both CoaXPress interface and USB 3.1 Gen 1 interface.
CoaXPress Interface:
With 6.25 Gbps × 4 lane connection, it is possible to transfer image data of 9.4 megapixels image
with 120 fps at standard scan which is the fastest scan mode of this camera.
In order to use this interface, a CoaXPress interface board which supports "6.25 Gbps x 2 lane" is
required.
USB 3.1 Gen 1 Interface:
USB 3.1 Gen 1 interface is able to transfer a 9.4 megapixels image as a rate of 17.6 fps. It is
versatile interface which is suitable to use when fast data transfer is not required.
This interface does not require a CoaXPress interface board. It transfers image with moderate
transfer speed.
• Do not connect CoaXPress and USB interface simultaneously.
• When a connection interface is changed from CoaXPress to USB, and vice versa, the
application software must be closed and the camera must be turned off.

qCMOS Camera C15550-20UP Instruction manual_Ver.1.0
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(10) Camera readout modes
The camera has three kinds of readout mode, Area readout mode, Lightsheet readout mode and
Photon number resolving mode. The camera also has two scan speed (Standard scan and Ultra
quiet scan), and two readout direction in Lightsheet readout mode.
(Camera readout modes) (Scan speed) (Readout direction)
Area readout mode Standard scan
Ultra quiet scan
Lightsheet readout mode Standard scan Top to Bottom
Bottom to Top
Photon number resolving mode Ultra quiet scan
(11) Camera operation modes
The camera has three operation modes: 1) Free running mode, in which the exposure and readout
timing are controlled by the internal microprocessor, 2) External trigger mode, in which the
exposure and readout timing are decided by an external trigger, and 3) Start trigger mode is used
to start operating the camera by a trigger input for a continuous imaging.
(Camera readout modes) (Camera operation modes) (External trigger modes)
Area readout mode /
Photon number resolving mode
Free running mode
External trigger mode Edge trigger mode
Start trigger mode
Global reset
Edge trigger mode
Level trigger mode
Global reset
Level trigger mode
Synchronous readout
trigger mode
Light sheet readout mode Free running mode
External trigger mode Edge trigger mode
Start trigger mode

qCMOS Camera C15550-20UP Instruction manual_Ver.1.0
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6. NAME AND FUNCTION OF PARTS
Figure 6-1
• Place the camera the ventilation ports to be lateral side. Do not place the
rear panel of the camera, which connectors are located, to be at the
bottom (Do not block ventilation openings.).
Lens mount
C15550-20UP can be attached to C-mount lens or an optics system.
Note
• The depth of the C-mount is 7 mm. Screwing in the C-mount too deeply might
scratch the glass surface.
WATER connector [WATER] (when using Water-cooling)
It connects the camera and the circulating water cooler with the cooling water hoses. The connector
position of WATER IN/OUT is not specified.
• See 8 “WATER COOLING” for instruction of water-cooling.
a
b
c
d
e
f
g
h
i
k
j

qCMOS Camera C15550-20UP Instruction manual_Ver.1.0
16
CoaXPress interface connector 1 - 4 [CoaXPress 1 - 4]
The connector 1 to 4 are connected to the CoaXPress interface connector 1 to 4 on the computer,
respectively.
• When a connection interface is changed from CoaXPress to USB, and vice versa,
the application software must be closed and the camera must be turned off.
• Do not connect CoaXPress and USB interface simultaneously.
Trigger input connector [EXT.TRIG]
This is used when the camera is being operated using external synchronization.
Input is TTL or 3.3 V LVCMOS level, and input impedance is 10 kΩ.
When an external trigger is input, the trigger is activated at the falling or rising edge of the signal. (You
can choose external trigger polarity between Negative and Positive.)
Timing out connector 1,2,3 [TIMING 1,2,3]
This is used when peripheral device(s) require synchronization with the camera.
Output is 3.3 V LVCMOS level. Output impedance is 33 Ω.
Note
• Determine termination according to cable length and so on.
STATUS lamp [STATUS]
The LED indicates status of camera.
Lighting color
Status of power distribution
Turn off (no color)
Power off
Orange (Blinking)
Initialization
Green (lighting)
Power on
Orange (lighting)
Data transfer
Red (lighting)
Heat up
• When the camera heats up, stop operation and unplug the
AC adapter immediately.
Power switch [POWER]
The power is turned on/off.
- When the power switch is set to "ON", the camera turns on and starts initialization and the lamp blinks
in orange.
- When the initialization is completed, the lamp color stays in green.
- When the camera transfers data, and the lamp color turns orange.
- When the power switch is set to "OFF", the camera returns to the power off state and the lamp turns
off.
DC power input connector [DC IN]
This is the power supply terminal. Use the accessory AC adapter.

qCMOS Camera C15550-20UP Instruction manual_Ver.1.0
17
USB interface connector [USB 3.1 Gen 1]
This is connected to the USB interface connector on the computer.
• When a connection interface is changed from CoaXPress to USB, and vice versa,
the application software must be closed and the camera must be turned off.
• Do not connect CoaXPress and USB interface simultaneously.
Air inlet
This is the inlet for the heat ventilation.
• If the camera is being operated in an enclosed environment, ensure to keep
clearance at least 10 cm from both intake and exhaust vents when setting up.
• To prevent overheating inside the camera, do not wrap the camera in cloth or other
material, or block the camera’s ventilation.
Base plate
When mounting the camera to a tripod or other fixture, use the base plate.
• The mounting screw does not enter more than 8 mm from the surface of the base
plate. Screwing it in further can impair normal operation.

qCMOS Camera C15550-20UP Instruction manual_Ver.1.0
18
7. CONNECTION
Refer to the figure when connecting the various cables.
(1) CoaXPress interface
Figure 7-1
(2) USB interface
Figure 7-2
CoaXPress
interface board
to connector
1-4
Circuit water cooler
a
b
c
Camera (Rear)
Computer
Circuit water cooler
a
b
d
Camera (Rear)
Computer
USB port

qCMOS Camera C15550-20UP Instruction manual_Ver.1.0
19
•
Place the camera the ventilation ports to be lateral side. Do not place the rear
panel of the camera, which connectors are located, to be at the bottom (Do
not block ventilation openings.).
• When you connect cables, turn off the power supply of the camera and the peripheral devices.
Note
• If you use the above options, see each installation manual.
AC adapter
This is the cord to supply a power supply. Use the accessory AC adapter.
Cooling water hose (at Water-cooling: Option)
It connects the camera and circulating water cooler. The insert position of WATER IN/OUT on the
camera WATER connector is not specified.
• See 8 “WATER COOLING” for instruction of water-cooling.
CoaXPress interface cable 1 - 4 (Option)
These are the cables to connect the CoaXPress interface connector 1 to 4 of the camera and the
CoaXPress interface connector 1 to 4 on the computer, respectively.
• When a connection interface is changed from CoaXPress to USB, and vice versa, the
application software must be closed and the camera must be turned off.
• Do not connect CoaXPress and USB interface simultaneously.
Note
• Hamamatsu recommends A14590-05-40 optional CoaXPress interface cable for this
camera. The camera complies with EMC and FCC regulations with using A14590-05-40
CoaXPress interface cable. Be careful that the camera with other interface cable may not
fulfill the EMC and FCC directive requirements.
USB interface cable (Option)
This is the cable to connect the USB interface connector of the camera and the USB interface connector
on the computer.
• When a connection interface is changed from CoaXPress to USB, and vice versa, the
application software must be closed and the camera must be turned off.
• Do not connect CoaXPress and USB interface simultaneously.
Note
• Hamamatsu recommends A12467-03 optional USB interface cable for this camera. The
camera complies with EMC and FCC regulations
with using A12467-03 USB interface cable. Be careful that the camera
with other interface cable may not fulfill the EMC and FCC directive requirements.

qCMOS Camera C15550-20UP Instruction manual_Ver.1.0
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8. WATER COOLING
• Improper handling of the camera without observing these cautions could lead to
personal injury to the user or damage to property.
8-1 CAUTIONS
(1) Change the cooling method
The default setting of cooling method is Air-cooling. Cooling mode can be changed by software
which is called, “DCAM Configurator”. (refer to 9-5 “STARTUP DCAM CONFIGURATOR”).
(2) Cooling water
It is recommended to use soft water (except pure water) for cooling water.
If you plan on using water other than soft water as recommended for example antifreeze etc, refer
to description of cooling water which is written in 12. “MAINTENANCE” or contact a Hamamatsu
subsidiary or your local distributor.
(3) Recommendation temperature
Hamamatsu recommends 25 °C for Circulating water temperature.
For the appropriate temperature range of the cooling water, confirm with the instruction manual of
your circulating water cooler.
(4) Condensation
Use the camera under the environment where condensation will not take place referring to the
following graph.
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
15 20 25 30 35 40
Ambient humidity [%]
Ambient temperature [℃]
Relations between ambient temperature and ambient humidity
Water temperature 20 ℃ for water cooling Water temperature 25 ℃ for water cooling
Graph 8-1