Hamamatsu ORCA-Flash4.0 LT3 User manual

B6020301-01
ORCA-Flash4.0 LT3
Digital CMOS camera
C11440-42U40
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. 1.1
Dec. 2022
HAMAMATSU PHOTONICS K.K.

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ORCA-Flash4.0 LT3 Digital CMOS camera C11440-42U40 Instruction manual_Ver.1.1
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1. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
1-1 SYMBOLS
The following symbols can be found on 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.
Note
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.
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.

ORCA-Flash4.0 LT3 Digital CMOS camera C11440-42U40 Instruction manual_Ver.1.1
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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 camera is used.
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 insert a foreign substance into the camera
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
Hamamatsu subsidiary or your local distributor. Do not attempt to repair
the camera yourself.

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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 AC adapter, do not pull on the cord. Remove the plug
from the camera to avoid breakdown of the AC adapter
or the camera.
If the camera is not in use for a long period of time, unplug the power supply
cord from the outlet to avoid damaging the cord and causing electric shock
or fire.
Connecting and disconnecting cables
Always turn off the camera before connecting and disconnecting cables.
Mounting the camera
When mounting the camera to a tripod or other fixture, use the optional
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 (C11440-42U40)
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.

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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.
Camera (C11440-42U40)
1
AC adapter
1
Power supply cord for AC adapter
1
Lens mount cap (attached to the camera)
1
C11440-42U40 Before Use (Booklet)
1
C11440-42U40 Instruction manual (CD-ROM)
1
[Option]
External trigger cable SMA-BNC 5 m
A12106-05
External trigger cable SMA-SMA 5 m
A12107-05
USB 3.0 cable A-MicroB 3 m
A12046-03
Frame grabber board with USB 3.0 A-MicroB 3m Cable
M9982-26
Adjustable pole for C11440-22CU
A11185-01
Base plate common for Flash4.0 chassis
A11186-01
Note
• The cable listed in option is highly recommended for use with the camera. The camera
may not confirm to CE marking and FCC regulation if other type of cable is used with.
Note
• If you use the adjuster pole and the base plate, please refer to the respective installation
manual.

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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 system may be exposed to liquid.
• Places where the humidity levels are not the storage humidity levels indicated in
the specifications and where the system may be exposed to liquid.
• Close to a strong source of magnetism or ratio waves.
• Places where there are vibrations.
• Places where the system 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)
Do not place the camera the rear panel of the camera, which connectors
are located, to be at the bottom. (Do not block ventilation openings.)
Do not block ventilation openings
To prevent overheating in the camera’s interior, 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.

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Contents
1. SAFETY PRECAUTIONS............................................................................ 1
1-1 SYMBOLS..............................................................................................................1
1-2 CLASSIFICATION OF WARNINGS......................................................................1
2. CHECK THE CONTENTS OF PACKAGE................................................... 4
3. INSTALLATION........................................................................................... 5
4. OVERVIEW.................................................................................................. 8
5. FEATURES.................................................................................................. 8
6. NAME AND FUNCTION OF PARTS ......................................................... 10
7. CONNECTION........................................................................................... 12
7-1 CONNECTING OF CABLES ...............................................................................12
8. OPERATIONS ........................................................................................... 13
8-1 OPERATING PRECAUTIONS.............................................................................13
8-2 PREPARING FOR IMAGING ..............................................................................13
8-3 IMAGING..............................................................................................................14
8-4 END OF IMAGING...............................................................................................14
8-5 STARTUP DCAM CONFIGURATOR..................................................................15
9. DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS FUNCTIONS ............................................. 17
9-1 THEORY OF THE CMOS IMAGE SENSOR.......................................................17
9-2 NORMAL AREA MODE ......................................................................................19
9-2-1 Readout method (Scan mode) ..................................................................... 19
9-2-2 Readout method (Scan speed)..................................................................... 20
9-2-3 Camera operation modes ............................................................................. 21
9-2-4 Frame rate calculation .................................................................................. 22
9-2-5 Configuring exposure time............................................................................ 24
9-2-6 Timing chart of camera operation modes ..................................................... 25
9-3 REAL-TIME CORRECTION FUNCTIONS ..........................................................35
10. PRECAUTION WHEN USING THE CMOS IMAGE SENSOR .................. 36
11. MAINTENANCE ........................................................................................ 37
11-1 CARE ...................................................................................................................37
12. TROUBLESHOOTING............................................................................... 38
12-1 IMAGE IS NOT TRANSFERRED ........................................................................38
12-2 ALTHOUGH IMAGES ARE TRANSFERRED ....................................................38
13. SPECIFICATIONS..................................................................................... 39
13-1 CAMERA SPECIFICATIONS ..............................................................................39
13-2 SPECTRAL RESPONSE CHARACTERISTICS(TYP.) ......................................42
14. DIMENSIONAL OUTLINES....................................................................... 43
14-1 C11440-42U40 .....................................................................................................43
15. WARRANTY .............................................................................................. 44
15-1 BASIC WARRANTY ............................................................................................44

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15-2 REPAIRS..............................................................................................................44
16. CONTACT INFORMATION ....................................................................... 45

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4. OVERVIEW
C11440-42U40 is equipped with the new scientific image sensor, an advanced CMOS device that
realizes the multiple benefits of high resolution, high readout speed, and low noise all at once.
The camera provides 4.0 megapixels resolution at 40 fps (frames/s) (and up to 25 000 fps by sub-
array readout) with rapid rolling, and the camera can achieve 0.9 electrons (median) 1.5 electrons
(rms) readout noise performance with standard scan. Moreover, the camera delivers high
sensitivity through its on-chip micro lens, high dynamic range that makes the camera suitable for
almost any scientific application from bright field imaging to low-light fluorescence imaging across
a wide spectral range. Various external trigger functions and timing output functions ensure proper
timing control with peripheral equipment to cover a wide range of applications.
The camera is the new scientific digital camera for life science microscopy, semiconductor
inspection, x-ray scintillator readout or industrial imaging.
5. FEATURES
(1) Readout noise
In the camera, the pixel amplifier is optimized: it has high gain from optimizing the
semiconductor process, and the difference among pixel amplifiers are greatly minimized.
In addition, there is on-chip CDS (correlated double sampling) circuit, which plays an
important role in achieving low noise. Moreover, the sensor features a split readout
scheme in which the top and bottom halves of the sensor are readout independently,
and the data of each horizontal line is read by 2 lines of column amplifier and A/D in the
top and the bottom in parallel and simultaneously. As a result, it achieves very fast
readout speed while keeping very good low-noise performance.
The camera has lower readout noise (0.9 electrons (median), 1.5 electrons (rms)) than
the conventional cooled CCD camera. Moreover, high-speed readout (30 fps with 2048
pixels × 2048 pixels) with very low readout noise, which was impossible, can now be
achieved.
In addition, the camera can achieve feature high-speed readout (40 fps with 2048 pixels
× 2048 pixels) with rapid rolling (readout noise 1.3 electrons (median), 1.9 electrons
(rms)).
(2) Cooling structure
In the camera, the CMOS image sensor is cooled down by a peltier element to suppress
the dark current. The camera has a special chamber structure to avoid the condensation.
(3) Pixel number and pixel size
The CMOS image sensor has 6.5 µm x 6.5 µm pixel sizes that is equivalent to
conventional CCD image sensor (2/3 inch, 1.3 megapixels). Also, the camera can
observe a wider field of view because the pixel number is about 3 times that of the
conventional CCD image sensor (2/3 inch, 1.3 megapixels)
(4) Readout method
The camera has a variety of readout modes. In addition to full resolution readout mode,
sub-array readout and binning readout are supported.

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(5) Frame rate
The CMOS image sensor realizes both low noise (0.9 electrons (median) 1.5 electrons
(rms)) and high speed readout (30 fps with 2048 pixels x 2048 pixels) simultaneously,
by a split readout scheme in which the top and the bottom halves of the sensor are
readout independently, and the data of each horizontal line is read by 2 lines of column
amplifier and A/D in the top and the bottom in parallel and simultaneously.
In addition, the camera can achieve feature high-speed readout (40 fps with 2048 pixels
× 2048 pixels) with rapid rolling (readout noise 1.3 electrons (median), 1.9 electrons
(rms)).
(6) Real-time correction functions
When using the camera, there is a case that shading caused by uneven illumination or
optics is not negligible in the image. Also, there are a few pixels in the CMOS image
sensor that have slightly higher readout noise performance compared to surrounding
pixels. For those cases, the camera has real-time offset level, shading and defective
pixel correction features to further improve image quality. The correction is performed
in real-time without sacrificing the readout speed at all.
(7) Interface
This camera has USB 3.1 Gen 1 interface.
USB 3.1 Gen 1 interface is able to transfer 4 megapixels image with 40 fps.
It is versatile interface. It transfers image with moderate transfer speed.
(8) Camera operation modes
The camera has three operation modes: 1) the free running mode, in which the
exposure and readout timing are controlled by the internal microprocessor, and 2) the
external trigger mode, in which the exposure and readout timing are decided by an
external trigger. 3) the start trigger mode is used to start operating the camera by a
trigger input for a continuous imaging.

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6. NAME AND FUNCTION OF PARTS
•
Do not place the rear panel of the camera, which connectors are
located, to be at the bottom (Do not block ventilation openings.).
①Lens mount
C11440-42U40 can be attached to C-mount lens or an optics system.
Note
• The depth of the C-mount is 7 mm. Screwing in the mount too far
can scratch the glass surface.
②USB 3.1 Gen 1 interface connector [USB 3.1 Gen 1]
This is connected to the USB interface connector on the computer.
③Trigger 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.)
④Timing 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, and it is output though BUS TRANSCEIVER IC SN74LVC541.
Output impedance is 33 Ω.
Note
• Determine termination according to cable length and so on.
⑤DC power input connector [DC IN]
This is the power supply terminal. Use the accessory AC adapter.

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⑥Power 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 green.
When the initialization is completed , the lamp color stays in green.
When the camera transfers data and the lamp color is orange.
When the power switch is set to "OFF", the camera returns to the power off state and the lamp
turns off.
⑦STATUS lamp [STATUS]
The LED indicates status of camera.
Lighting color
Status of power distribution
Turn off (no color)
Power off
Green (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.
⑧Air outlet
This is the outlet for the heat ventilation.
• To prevent overheating inside the camera, do not wrap the camera in cloth or
other material, or block the camera’s 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.
⑨Installation holes for base plate
These are the holes to install the base plate.
• If you use the adjuster pole and the base plate, see each installation manual.

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7. CONNECTION
7-1 CONNECTING OF CABLES
Refer to the figure below when connecting the various cables.
Figure 7-1
• When you connect cables, turn off the power supply of the camera and the peripheral devices.
• If you use the adjuster pole and the base plate, see each installation manual.
• Do not place the rear panel of the camera, which connectors are located,
to be at the bottom (Do not block ventilation openings.).
①AC adapter
This is the cord to supply a power supply. Use the accessory AC adapter.
②USB interface cable (Option)
This is the cable to connect the USB interface connector of the camera and the USB interface
connector on the computer.
Note
• Hamamatsu recommends A12046-03 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.

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8. OPERATIONS
8-1 OPERATING PRECAUTIONS
Be careful of the following when you operate the camera.
(1) Cooling method
Cooling of this equipment is done using a Peltier element. With a Peltier element, when
current is supplied, one surface is cooled, and the other surface is heated. The CMOS
image sensor is positioned on the cooling side, and cooling is done by discharging the
heat from the heated surface. This cooling method is passive air-cooling.
(2) Ambient temperature
The recommended ambient temperature for camera operation is between 20 ºC and
25 °C. Thus, the maximum temperatures to which the CMOS image sensor can be
cooled, and the stability of the cooled temperature, are affected by the ambient
temperature. The ambient temperature should be maintained at a constant temperature
in order for cooling to be effective.
(3) Protection circuit
This camera’s thermoelectric cooling device is protected by a thermal protection circuit.
If the internal temperature of the camera becomes abnormally hot, the protection circuit
operates to inform the user by a buzzer alarm (beep tone) and lighting the camera’s red
LED light while simultaneously cutting the current supply to the Peltier element. As soon
as this protection is implemented, turn off the power switch and unplug the AC supply.
Then remove the cause of the overheating.
(4) Fan speed
This camera has a function to change a fan speed in 3 stages [Fast, Middle, Slow] to
suppress camera vibration caused by a fan. Fast speed achieves the maximum air
volume and it is the default factory setting. The usable temperature of this camera varies
depending on the fan speed.
Fan speed can be changed by software which is called, “DCAM Configurator”. (refer to
8-5 “STARTUP DCAM CONFIGURATOR”).
8-2 PREPARING FOR IMAGING
Use the following procedure when starting operating of the camera.
(1) Connect devices as shown in Figure 7-1 before you start operation.
(2) Turn on the computer's power switch.
The cooling temperature becomes stable about 5 minutes after cooling begins.
• When the cables are connected, confirm the power switch of peripheral device is in the OFF position.

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8-3 IMAGING
Start the control and imaging with the application software.
Note
• Please refer to the instruction manual attached to the software for the way of using it and the details.
8-4 END OF IMAGING
Carry out the procedure below when imaging is finished.
(1) End the imaging or transmission of image data with the application software.
(2) Turn off the power to the peripheral device.

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8-5 STARTUP DCAM CONFIGURATOR
The following is a procedure to startup “DCAM Configurator”.
(1) Open “Setup.exe” in the DCAM-API software’s folder.
If the DCAM-API software is not installed on your computer, insert the media of DCAM-API
software in the slot of your computer.
When it is inserted, “DCAM-API Setup” window is displayed automatically.
(2) Click on “Tools”.
(3) Click on “DCAM Configurator”.

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(4) “DCAM Configurator” window is displayed. The startup is completed with this.
- Even if the camera's power supply is turned off, the state of setting is kept.
- The state of setting can confirm according to “Hardware” icon on DCAM Configurator window.
- After the startup, operate DCAM Configurator according to "DCAM Configurator Instruction
manual". The manual is displayed when the following buttons on DCAM Setup window are
clicked.

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9. DESCRIPTION OF VARIOUS FUNCTIONS
9-1 THEORY OF THE CMOS IMAGE SENSOR
The pixel of the CMOS image sensor is composed of the photodiode and the amplifier that
converts the charge into voltage. Entered light is converted to charge and converted to voltage in
the pixel. The voltage of each pixel is output by switching the switch one by one. (Figure 9-1)
The scientific CMOS image sensor used in this camera has an on-chip CDS (correlated double
sampling) circuit, which plays an important role in achieving low noise. In addition, the CMOS
image sensor realizes both low noise and high speed readout simultaneously, by a split readout
scheme in which the top and the bottom halves of the sensor are readout independently, and the
data of each horizontal line is read by 2 lines of column amplifier and A/D in the top and the bottom
in parallel and simultaneously.
Figure 9-1 Structure of the CMOS image sensor

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The exposure and the readout method of the CMOS image sensor is rolling shutter.
In the rolling shutter, the exposure and readout are done line by line. Therefore, the exposure
timing is different on one screen. (Figure 9-2)
But even if the object moves during the exposure, the affect of rolling shutter is very small.
Figure 9-2 Exposure timing of Rolling shutter